Browns activate veteran DT Maliek Collins off PUP list
The Cleveland Browns activated defensive tackle Maliek Collins from the physically unable to perform list on Monday morning, according to a team announcement. Collins had been sidelined throughout the summer while recovering from a quad injury suffered in Week 13 of last season. He signed a two-year deal with Cleveland last year and recorded 25 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and a fumble recovery before the injury.
Collins, who has ten years of NFL experience, previously made 136 appearances for the 49ers, Texans, Raiders, and Cowboys before joining the Browns. His return comes at a critical time for a defensive line that was already dealing with inexperience and depth issues, made worse over the weekend when Alex Wright suffered a season-ending Achilles injury.
Expected to start alongside Mason Graham
According to Sports Illustrated, Collins is expected to slot directly back into the starting defensive tackle position opposite second-year standout Mason Graham. His presence is seen as a stabilizing force for a unit that had grown thin after Wright's injury, and his quick, reactive style should help the defense look and play more sound. Collins was on pace for one of his best seasons before the injury, having posted the second-most sacks on Cleveland's defense in 2025.
Roster moves: Wright and Herring waived
The Browns also announced that they have waived tight end Dea'Quan Wright and cornerback Tyron Herring. Herring was cut from the team's injured reserve list. These moves free up roster spots as the team prepares for its final preseason game before the regular season.
Perspective on Collins's impact
Collins's experience is seen as a major asset for a young Browns defense, according to Sports Illustrated. At 31 years old, he brings leadership and chemistry to the trenches, and his return is described as "positive news that Browns fans needed to hear." The team may play it safe with his return, but he could practice as early as this week, according to the same report. While the defense has depth concerns, the addition of Collins—along with the recent signing of defensive end Derek Barnett, as reported by Sports Illustrated—should help shore up the line. Jared Verse, another defensive lineman, is also part of the equation, though the team's immediate focus is on getting Collins back up to speed.
Looking ahead
With Collins back in the fold, the Browns hope to field a more experienced and disruptive defensive line. His production last season—6.5 sacks, 25 total tackles, 15 solo tackles, and a fumble recovery—demonstrates he can still perform at a high level. The team will likely ease him back into action, but his return provides a much-needed boost as Cleveland prepares for the regular season.