Cleveland Browns sign Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Chris Smith

The Cincinnati Bengals have lost one of their unrestricted free agents, as The Enquirer confirmed that defensive lineman Chris Smith will sign a three-year deal, $14 million with the Cleveland Browns once free agency opens at 4 p.m. on Wednesday.

The Bengals did try to retain Smith at their number and for two seasons -- and Smith wanted to stay -- but the Browns' push was too great to pass up. 

Smith, 26, was acquired by the Bengals last April from the Jacksonville Jaguars for a conditional draft pick. In the first real playing time of his four-year career, Smith displayed pass rush ability and versatility in former defensive coordinator Paul Guenther's scheme, recording three sacks and breaking up two passes.

Smith played 35 percent of the Bengals' defensive snaps, fourth-most among all defensive linemen. He also played 88 special teams snaps. 

Cincinnati Bengals' 2018 free agent tracker