Most Cleveland Browns fans may not be familiar with Chris Edmonds, even though he's been on the team for two years now. An undrafted free agent out of Arizona State, he's entering his third training camp with the organization.
However, this is the first time in his career that he's making a strong case to make the 53-man roster. He's leading the team with three interceptions in training camp, including a pick-six on Deshaun Watson after an Emmanuel McNeil-Warren deflection.
The 25-year-old safety has spent most of his time on the practice squad and on special teams. But with him showcasing strong play-making instincts, the team should at least consider having him around as Grant Delpit's backup.
#Browns S Chris Edmonds with his third interception of training camp during today's practice session. pic.twitter.com/7sppRV2Sjb
— Camryn Justice (@camijustice) August 4, 2026
Three interceptions and standout special teams play have turned Chris Edmonds into a legitimate 53-man roster candidate
The Browns signed Edmonds as an undrafted free agent in 2024. He was elevated from the practice squad twice during his rookie season but didn't record a single stat on defense.
Things weren't much different last season. Once again, Edmonds stuck around training camp but didn't make the initial 53-man roster, and while he was elevated for nine games, he only played eight snaps on defense and 154 on special teams, logging seven total tackles (one solo).
Pro Football Focus did, however, give Edmonds an excellent 86.2 special teams grade last season. On defense, he was used exclusively as a run stopper, logging an overall grade of 63.7 and a run-defense grade of 60.6 in limited opportunities.
The Browns' safety room is actually pretty stacked. Grant Delpit isn't going anywhere after signing a big contract extension, and Ronnie Hickman remains a locked-in starter. With a budding star like second-round rookie Emmanuel McNeil-Warren also in the mix, making this year's roster will only be the first challenge for Edmonds, as playing time might be scarce.
Defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg must figure out how to keep McNeil-Warren on the field as often as possible. He can play both safety spots and in the slot, a versatile skill set that should give him an edge over his teammates.
Even so, Edmonds' hard work cannot go unnoticed. He's closing on the ball fast, showing reliable hands to finish plays and strong anticipation. Add his contributions on special teams to the mix, and he should have a strong case for roster consideration.
The Browns originally saw him as a run-defense specialist, which limited his opportunities on defense. But if he continues to prove that he can also be a force to be reckoned with in coverage, he may finally push through and crack the roster after years of knocking on the door.
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