Former undrafted linebacker stepping up for Browns when needed the most

Mohamoud Diabate has taken a leap in year-two with the Browns

Former undrafted linebacker Mohamoud Diabate has started two games for the Cleveland Browns in 2024 and is expected to play a larger role going forward with injuries to fellow linebackers Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah and Jordan Hicks.

Diabate played just 26 defensive snaps in his rookie season a year ago but has flown around in his 133 snaps in 2024. For what it’s worth, his PFF grade this season is 78.8 overall and 88.7 against the run, both above-average marks. Those grades do not tell the whole story, but they are a nice indicator to back up what the film has been showing on the young backer.

Initially securing a roster spot for his special teams contributions, Diabate has capitalized on his expanded defensive role this season. Devin Bush will likely get more playing time alongside Diabate, along with undrafted rookie Winston Reid and sixth-round pick Nathaniel Watson.

With Hicks and Owusu-Koramoah sidelined the Browns have a valuable opportunity to further evaluate Diabate and consider his potential impact for the future.