Cleveland, OH — In a stunning move that’s sending shockwaves through the NFL, Cleveland Browns wide receiver Darius Holt is on his way out after accepting a massive 4-year, $44 million contract with an unnamed AFC rival, sources confirm.
The 26-year-old breakout star, who hauled in 82 receptions for 1,109 yards and 9 touchdowns last season, was expected to be a central piece in head coach Kevin Stefanski’s offensive game plan heading into 2025. But despite strong interest from the Browns in retaining him long-term, Holt chose a bigger payday over continuity in Cleveland.
“This is a tough loss,” a team insider said. “Coach Stefanski fought hard to keep him. But at the end of the day, money talks—and $44 million is hard to walk away from.”
Holt’s departure leaves a major gap in the Browns’ receiving corps, especially with Amari Cooper’s future uncertain and the team still developing its young talent. Fans were blindsided by the announcement, flooding social media with reactions ranging from disbelief to appreciation for Holt’s contributions.
While the destination has not yet been confirmed, reports suggest the Jacksonville Jaguars and New York Jets were heavily pursuing the star wideout with aggressive offers.
As Cleveland recalibrates its roster and cap space, one thing is clear: in today’s NFL, loyalty often takes a backseat to the bottom line.
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