Reports: Cleveland Browns trade for Los Angeles Chargers K Dustin Hopkins

The Cleveland Browns have acquired kicker Dustin Hopkins from the Los Angeles Chargers and plan to cut second-year kicker Cade York.

The Cleveland Browns have made a significant move ahead of the NFL roster deadline. Reports indicate that the Browns have agreed to a trade with the Los Angeles Chargers to acquire kicker Dustin Hopkins in exchange for a 2025 seventh-round pick. It is expected that the Browns will then release second-year kicker Cade York.

This decision marks the end of an up-and-down career in Cleveland for York, who was selected by the Browns in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft. His selection as the team's future kicker came with high expectations, as he had been recognized as a second-team All-American during his college career at LSU.

York made a strong impression in training camp with his powerful kicks, and he kicked a game-winning 58-yard field goal in the Browns' Week 1 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Throughout his rookie season, he made 75 percent of his field goal attempts and had a successful record with extra points.

However, York's performance in the preseason leading up to the 2023 season was inconsistent. He struggled to find his rhythm, making only four of his eight field goal attempts, including two potential game-winners that he missed.

In contrast, Hopkins brings a wealth of experience to the Browns. Having played for multiple teams throughout his career, including the Buffalo Bills, New Orleans Saints, Washington Football Team, and the Chargers, he has made 84.8 percent of his career field goal attempts. Despite suffering a season-ending hamstring injury last year, he connected on 90 percent of his field goal attempts in the games he played.

The Browns will kick off their 2023 season on September 10th, hosting the Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns Stadium. With the acquisition of Hopkins, the team hopes to solidify their kicking game and improve their chances for success in the upcoming season.

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