The Cleveland Browns have have announced the release of offensive tackle Kellen Diesch with a failed physical designation. Diesch was claimed off of waivers when the Pittsburgh Steelerswaived him only days earlier.
The Browns took a flyer on Diesch on May 14th. In exchange, they released kicker, Lucas Havrisik, one of three that were on the active roster. Dustin Hopkins and Cade York remain on the team’s roster.
Diesch, a 6’7″ 300 pound tackle was not selected during the 2022 draft, signing an undrafted rookie deal with the Miami Dolphins afterward. A terrific athlete, Diesch ran a 4.89 40-yard dash, posted a 32.5″ vertical and 9’2″ broad jump, outstanding numbers for his size. His agility was good too. However, Diesch had curiously short arms for his height at only 32 3/8″. His vertical jump covers more ground than his arms as an offensive tackle, which is atypical.
Diesch has spent time with teams like Dolphins, Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers. He spent last season on the practice squad of the Steelers and signed a reserves/futures contract to be part of their offseason program before waiving him earlier in the week. The Browns would have been his fifth team. The reason people keep looking at him is because of his size and athleticism. If Diesch is able to get healthy enough to pass a physical, there will be a team that is interested in taking a look at him.
For now, the Browns will look elsewhere and have an open roster spot. They could theoretically bring back Havrisik to deal with their newfound kicking shortfall. Teams never know when they could need three. More likely, the Browns will look to bring in another position player.
