Former Ohio State wide receiver Noah Brown is back on the free-agent market after the Las Vegas Raiders terminated his contract just eight days after signing him.
The 30-year-old joined the Raiders on August 16 as a veteran depth option for a thin receiving corps under new head coach Klint Kubiak. He appeared in one preseason game, catching a single pass for 11 yards, before Las Vegas cut him ahead of its final exhibition and the league’s roster deadline.
What Happened
Brown signed with the Raiders as a free agent earlier this month. The team was looking for a bigger-bodied veteran (6-foot-2, 225 pounds) who could compete for snaps on a young, unproven depth chart.
He did not show enough in camp or his limited preseason action to stick. The early release gives him a head start on finding another team before the bulk of roster cuts hit this weekend.
Why This Matters
For Ohio State fans, Brown represents the program’s consistent pipeline of NFL talent — even for players who were never the highest-profile names in Columbus. He was never a star in the Horseshoe, but he carved out a nine-year professional career through size, toughness, and persistence.
His latest stop was brief, yet it continues a pattern of Buckeyes who keep grinding in the league long after their college days.
Key Details Fans Need to Know
A Sparta, New Jersey native, Brown played three seasons at Ohio State from 2014 to 2016 under Urban Meyer. He appeared in 28 games, finishing with 33 receptions for 411 yards and seven touchdowns. His most productive college season came in 2016 with 32 catches for 402 yards and seven scores.
The Dallas Cowboys selected him in the seventh round (239th overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft. Brown spent five seasons in Dallas, one with the Houston Texans, and two with the Washington Commanders.
Across 91 career games (38 starts), he has 155 receptions for 2,083 yards and six touchdowns. His best stretch included 43 catches for 555 yards and three scores in 2022 with the Cowboys, followed by 33 catches for 567 yards in Houston in 2023. In 2024 he was part of Washington’s surprising NFC Championship run.
Injuries have been a recurring issue. Groin, knee, and rib problems limited him to four games and five catches for 83 yards in 2025.
What Happens Next
Brown is now available to any team looking for veteran receiver depth before the regular season begins. Whether another franchise gives him a look remains to be seen, but his size and experience could still appeal as a depth piece or special-teams contributor.
For now, the latest former Buckeye on the waiver wire is searching for his next opportunity.
The Bigger Picture
Brown’s career is a reminder that not every successful Ohio State-to-NFL path follows the trajectory of a Garrett Wilson or Chris Olave. Some players last nearly a decade through consistency and resilience rather than early stardom.
His brief Raiders stint is simply the latest chapter for a player who has already outlasted many higher draft picks from his class.
13. FAQ Section
Why did the Raiders release Noah Brown?
He signed on August 16 but did not show enough in camp or his one preseason appearance (one catch for 11 yards) to earn a roster spot.
How long was Brown with the Raiders?
Eight days.
What were Noah Brown’s Ohio State stats?
33 receptions for 411 yards and seven touchdowns in 28 games from 2014-2016.
What is Brown’s NFL career record?
155 receptions for 2,083 yards and six touchdowns in 91 games across stops with Dallas, Houston, and Washington.
Is Noah Brown still in the NFL?
He is currently a free agent after the Raiders’ release and could sign with another team.
Reader Question
Do you think another NFL team will give Noah Brown a chance this season, or has his time in the league likely come to an end?
Why Buckeyes Fans Don’t Have to Worry About NFL Players Joining Opponents
https://allsportsreports.com/why-ohio-state-and-the-big-ten-wont-face-returning-nfl-players-in-2026/
