Chris Hubbard returning to Cleveland Browns on one-year contract

Chris Hubbard will attempt another comeback with the Browns.

The versatile backup offensive lineman agreed to a contract with the Browns on Wednesday afternoon, the team announced. A person familiar with the deal said it's for one year. An agreement had been expected to be reached this week.

Hubbard had been scheduled to hit the open market when free agency began at 4 p.m. Wednesday. He has been with the Browns since 2018, when he signed as an unrestricted free agent after beginning his career in 2013 as an undrafted rookie with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Hubbard has appeared in 81 regular-season games with 48 starts, including 34 with the Browns.

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Hubbard, 30, ended the past two seasons on injured reserve.

Hubbard suffered a triceps injury in the 2021 season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs and elected to undergo season-ending surgery in early October. Late in the 2020 season, Hubbard suffered a dislocated kneecap.

Hubbard can play both tackle and guard positions, so he is considered a valuable player, especially with right tackle Jack Conklin trying to rebound from a season-ending ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee.

“Versatility is something we value, and Hub has proven that he can play at a consistent level at just about every spot on the offensive line," Browns coach Kevin Stefanski said in a news release. "He's working really hard to make a full recovery from his injury, and his veteran presence brings so much to our O-line room. I’m glad he will be back."

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Nate Ulrich can be reached at nulrich@thebeaconjournal.com.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Chris Hubbard re-signing with Browns for one year