Not every draft pick lands with the team that selects him. Personnel crises, injuries and shifting priorities can push young players out the door before they have a real chance to establish themselves. Many of them resurface elsewhere, hoping that the new environment will open up things that have never been clicked. One former Browns receiver is now getting that opportunity.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports that the Raiders have signed former Browns WR Jamari Thrash.
“#Raiders sign WR Jamari Thrash to practice squad. Waived on IR by #Browns last month, 2024 fifth-round pick healthy & back with new team,” Garafolo wrote.
#Raiders sign WR Jamari Thrash to practice squad. Waived on IR by the #Browns last month, 2024 fifth round pick is healthy and back with new team. pic.twitter.com/agaQqckkX0
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) October 12,
Jamari Thrash’s time in Cleveland ended last month when the Browns placed him off injured reserve. Now healthy, he will join the Las Vegas Raiders’ practice squad as he works his way back to the active roster.
The Browns selected Thrash in the 5th round, 156th overall, of the 2024 draft after a productive college career at Georgia State and Louisville. He never played a consistent role, catching 13 passes for 129 yards in 18 games over 2 seasons.
His 2nd year was more encouraging. Thrash caught 10 of 15 targets for 107 yards in 2025 and made his first career start, showing more reliability than a rookie.
The reception room has changed dramatically around him this season. The Browns invested premium picks in Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion, pushed Isaiah Bond for snaps and left Jerry Jeudy under contract. Landing on injured reserve with so many receivers in front of him sealed his fate in Cleveland.
Las Vegas offers Thrash a new beginning. The Raiders are building around No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza, and a breach in transition could open the door for a receiver looking to prove himself on the practice squad.
For the Browns, his departure is a reminder of how quickly a roster can change under Andrew Berry. Late-round picks should make a quick impression, and with the emergence of Boston and Bond, Cleveland has found the young receiving talent the Thrash once hoped it would have.
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