Browns Waive Dae’Quan Wright, Clearing Path Back to College

The Browns are waiving rookie TE Dae’Quan Wright, setting the stage for a potentially historic return to college football.

If Wright clears waivers, he has an agreement in place to play for LSU for the 2026 season, according to Adam Schefter. Wright is believed to be the first player to go from an NFL roster back to playing college football.

Wright was among a group of players granted an opportunity to pursue another season of college eligibility following a court ruling. That opened the door for him to enter the transfer portal while still under an NFL contract.

The Browns claimed Wright off waivers earlier this month after he was released by the Eagles. He remained with Cleveland throughout the week and even dressed for Saturday’s preseason game against Buffalo, although he did not play.

Browns head coach Todd Monken was asked Saturday about Wright entering the transfer portal and admitted he was caught off guard by the situation.

“Man, that shit is crazy…I wondered why Lane Kiffin reached out a week ago. Now I know. Shit, I didn’t know, now I know. I didn’t call him back, guess I should’ve.”

Less than 24 hours later, now we know why.

LSU head coach Lane Kiffin had reportedly been pursuing Wright, and Cleveland’s decision to waive the rookie now gives him a path to Baton Rouge if no NFL team claims him.

The 22-year-old spent four seasons in college, starting at Virginia Tech before transferring to Ole Miss. He recorded 113 receptions for 1,603 yards and 9 touchdowns across 47 career games.

If Wright clears NFL waivers and completes his move to LSU, he would become the first known player to make this type of transition under the new eligibility circumstances.