Former Commanders cornerback lands with Cleveland Browns

September 2, 2026 - 06:04

A familiar face from the Washington secondary is heading to the AFC North. The Cleveland Browns have agreed to terms with cornerback Benjamin St-Juste, according to a league source familiar with the deal. The move adds depth to a Browns defensive unit that has been searching for consistent play on the outside.

St-Juste, who spent the last four seasons with Washington, was not tendered a contract earlier this spring, making him an unrestricted free agent. The 27-year-old Canadian native started 13 games for the Commanders in 2024, recording 58 tackles and seven passes defensed. While he never picked off a pass last season, his size and physicality at the line of scrimmage have always intrigued coaches. At 6 foot 3 and 200 pounds, he fits the profile of a press-man cornerback that Cleveland defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz prefers.

The Browns have been active in reshaping their cornerback room this offseason. Adding St-Juste gives them a veteran option who can play both outside and in sub-packages. He will compete with second-year player Myles Harden and free agent addition Darius Rush for the third cornerback spot behind starters Denzel Ward and Martin Emerson Jr.

St-Juste's time in Washington was a mixed bag. He showed flashes of promise, especially in 2023 when he broke up nine passes, but he also struggled with penalties and gave up some big plays. Still, his experience in a division that features top receivers like A.J. Brown and CeeDee Lamb should help him adjust to the physical demands of the AFC North.

For Cleveland, this is a low-risk signing that could pay off if St-Juste regains his confidence. He will join the team for offseason workouts next week.