The reality of the NFL is that it is indeed a business. Just eight days after signing former Alcorn State quarterback Felix Harper as an undrafted free agent, the Cleveland Browns waived Harper on Monday.
Harper was waived after the signing of defensive back Reggie Robinson on Monday, signaling it was a number game. Harper was one of five quarterbacks on the roster for Cleveland. Deshaun Watson, Jacoby Brissett, Josh Dobbs and Baker Mayfield are already on the roster. However the Browns have been looking to trade Mayfield and there looms a possible suspension of Watson to start the season. Those factors gave fans of Harper some optimism that he might have a fighting chance to compete for the 53 man roster.
Robinson was cut last week for a failed physical before rejoining the roster on Monday. The 2020 fifth round pick by the Cowboys was claimed off waivers from the Texans before failing his physical.
By being put on waivers any other NFL team can claim Harper within a 24 hour period. If he clears waivers his contract will be terminated and he will become an unrestricted free agent.
Cleveland signed Harper on May 15 after he impressed the staff during its rookie tryout camp.
Harper responded to being released by the Browns on his Instagram account on Monday.
Harper Reacts
“I’m not giving up. I’m thankful for the invitation to compete at the Cleveland Browns’ Rookie camp and to earn the opportunity to be signed, albeit for a short time. Being released without the opportunity to further compete does hurt, but I cannot let it deter me. I won’t give up on my dream of playing professional football and showing that an HBCU quarterback can deliver at the best level. I look forward to other opportunities to compete and play professional football. I trust God and know he has a plan for me. I want to again thank the Browns organization for the opportunity to compete and wish them great success,” he wrote.
Jackson State head coach Deion Sanders showed support for Harper in the comments.
“I’m betting on YOU and I don’t bet so I Believe,” Sanders wrote.
Former Alabama A&M quarterback Aqeel Glass showed his support as well writing, “God got you fam.”
Harper wrapped up his career with the Alcorn State Braves as a two-time All-American and a two-time SWAC Champion. The quarterback put up 5,641 passing yards and 67 total touchdowns on a 61 percent completion rate over his three seasons of action. His 55 passing touchdowns landed him top 10 on ASU’s all-time pass touchdown list. Harper was the SWAC Offensive Player of the Year in 2019.