The Cleveland Browns have announced the signing of free agent wide receiver Matt Landers, bringing the roster to the full 90 players as they begin organized team activities.
Standing a little over 6’4″ and weighing 200 pounds after leaving the University of Arkansas, Landers hails from St. Petersburg, Florida. He began his college career at Georgia, transferring to Toledo for the 2021 season after limited playing time. He finished his college career with the Razorbacks in 2022 as their leading receiver, with 47 catches for 901 yards and eight touchdowns.
Landers went undrafted but spent time on the practice squads of the Seattle Seahawks and Carolina Panthers in 2023. Most recently, he played in the UFL with the Arlington Renegades and San Antonio Brahmas before being waived by the Bulls on April 9th.
The Browns are interested in Landers due to his raw athletic ability. He has an impressive athletic profile, having run a 4.37 40-yard dash, posted a 37″ vertical, and achieved a 10’10” broad jump at the NFL Scouting Combine. At his pro day, he recorded a 6.86 3-cone drill and a 4.32 shuttle. Except for his shuttle time, all his metrics are outstanding for his size.
In that regard, Landers represents a low-risk gamble for the Browns. The team previously drafted Anthony Schwartz in the third round of the 2021 draft, which didn’t pan out. However, the Miami Dolphins have kept Schwartz around because if he eventually performs well, even for a short period, it could be beneficial. Similarly, it makes sense for the Browns to take a chance on athletes like Landers. If he succeeds, the team looks smart; if not, they only lose a roster spot.
Especially with a team that is currently rostering three kickers, they have the flexibility to see if an athlete the caliver of Landers can prove to be someone worth carrying through OTAs and potentially minicamp in June. At that point, if the team feels good about Landers, they can carry him into training camp.
In addition to his potential as a wide receiver, Landers presents an intriguing matchup challenge for the Browns’ cornerbacks. In the AFC North, they face receivers like Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and George Pickens. Moreover, the Baltimore Ravens recently drafted Devontez Walker from North Carolina, who adds a vertical threat to their offense. Landers could aid in preparing the Browns’ young cornerbacks, such as Cam Mitchell, Kahlef Hailassie, and their own draft pick Myles Harden, for these matchups.
Given the talent and sheer numbers the Browns have at the wide receiver position, Landers has an uphill battle to make the opening day roster. However, if he’s able to earn a spot on the practice squad, that would be a success.
