News

The Cleveland Browns today announced the signings of a pair of unrestricted free agents in running back Brandon Jackson (Green Bay) and defensive back Usama (oo-SOMM-uh) Young (New Orleans).  The club also re-signed offensive lineman Billy Yates. In addition, kicker Phil Dawson signed his tender as the club’s franchise player, tight end Evan Moore signed his tender as a restricted free agent and linebacker Marcus Benard and defensive lineman Brian Schaefering signed their tenders as exclusive rights players.

Jackson originally joined Green Bay as a second round (63rd overall) pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. He has appeared in 52 games with 16 starts, while totaling 1,329 rushing yards on 347 attempts with seven touchdowns and adding 110 receptions for 844 yards with two scores. In 2010, Jackson opened 13 contests and set career highs in nearly every category, including rushing attempts (190), rushing yards (703), rushing touchdowns (3), receptions (43) and receiving yards (844). He was a three-year letterman at the University of Nebraska (2004-06).

Originally drafted by the Saints in the third round (66th overall) of the 2007 NFL Draft, Young has appeared in 52 games with six starts, totaling three interceptions, two fumble recoveries and one sack, while adding 57 stops on special teams. Last season, Young saw action in 11 games with three starts and registered 14 tackles with one sack. He was a four-year starter at Kent State University (2003-06).