The Browns traded defensive lineman Danny Shelton to the New England Patriots as they reshape their roster under a new-look front office. [
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Cleveland sent Shelton and its 2018 fifth-round pick (acquired from Kansas City in September) in exchange for the Patriots' 2019 third-round pick.
The trade marks the fourth trade the Browns have officially agreed to since the new league year began Wednesday afternoon. Cleveland also acquired wide receiver Jarvis Landry from Miami, quarterback Tyrod Taylor from Buffalo and Packers defensive back Damarious Randall for rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer.
"When there was an offer from New England and the compensation offered, we felt it would be best to put Danny in a nice situation to help him extend his career but also we have some more assets coming up in the future," general manger John Dorsey said.
"It's tough to see Danny and DeShone move on to new teams," head coach Hue Jackson added. "They have both given their all to the Cleveland Browns and I wish them nothing but success with their new teams."
Shelton, the 12th-overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, made 128 tackles and 1.5 sacks in 45 starts over three seasons. He's been regarded as one the league's top interior defenders the past two seasons and is expected to compete for a starting role on New England's defensive line.
The decision to trade Shelton means the Browns will rely on young defensive tackles in Larry Ogunjobi, a third-round pick in 2017 who came on strong late last season, Trevon Coley (15 starts), Caleb Brantley (a sixth-round pick in 2017) and Jamie Meder, a restricted free agent who would be entering his fifth season with the team.
Cleveland, owners of the first and fourth-overall picks, now has nine total selections in the 2018 NFL Draft.
