Jacobbi McDaniel signs free agent deal with the Cleveland Browns

MAY 19, 2014, CLEVELAND, OH – The 2014 NFL Draft may not have yielded a position for Jacobbi McDaniel, but the former Florida State defensive tackle has signed a free agent contract with the Cleveland Browns just a week later on Monday, May 19.

No stranger to drafts, back in 2009, McDaniel was selected by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 33rd round of the MLB Draft, but decided to pursue his passion for football which has landed him a BCS Championship.

During his time as a Seminole, McDaniel earned All-ACC honors from Sporting News, he was on Phil Steele’s Third Team Freshman All-American squad and was part of the 2013-14 FSU BCS Championship team. His college career stats include 92 total tackles, 42 solo tackles and 2.5 sacks.

“My goal is to display my relentless effort,” said McDaniel of his contract. “I’m ready to impress the coaches and be part of the dog pound again.”

McDaniel follows in the steps of several other FSU DTs that have made it to the NFL, including Timmy Jernigan (2014 – 2nd round), Everett Dawkins (2013 – 7th round) and Andre Fluellen (2008 – 3rd round).

Derek Spearman, McDaniel’s NFL agent, spoke highly of his client’s capabilities. “

Jacobbi sustained a minor injury during his pro day, but was able to bounce back to 100-percent two weeks later,” said Spearman. “He deserves the shot that he’s got, and he’s going to excel in the NFL.”

The Browns will kick off the 2014 season on Sunday, September 7, in Pittsburgh against the Steelers, as Cleveland welcomes its newest player.