NFL News: Browns sign Armonty Bryant to four-year deal

The Cleveland Browns have signed defensive lineman Armonty Bryant to a four-year contract, the team announced on Friday.

Drafted in the seventh round (217th overall), Bryant spent one year at Cisco Junior College in Texas before spending his final three seasons at East Central University (2010-12). He appeared in 30 career games at ECU and registered 165 tackles, 27.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and one interception, and blocked nine kicks. His 27.5 sacks set a school record. In 2010, he recorded 13.5 sacks, which led all Division II linemen and ranked third among all DII players.

Having multiple off-field issues while in school, the high-motor pass-rusher saw his draft stock drop significantly. Since being selected by the Browns this past spring, Bryant had been arrested under the suspicion of driving under the influence but has since shown increased dedication, rooming with first-round draft pick Barkevious Mingo during the team’s minicamp.

“I’ve cut out going out, I’ve stopped drinking – everything,” said Bryant. “I’ve just been sticking myself in a hotel room, me and Barkevious Mingo. He’s just been keeping me focused and really helping me out. We go watch a movie, go out to dinner, just get my mind of stuff like that. [I’m] walking on thin ice. You can’t make any more mistakes. The organization gave me another opportunity, and I’m appreciative of it. I’m just trying to get better.”

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