Cleveland Browns Release LB Mychal Kendricks Following Insider Trading Charges

Cleveland Browns linebacker Mychal Kendricks was released by the NFL team Wednesday night, hours after he was charged by federal prosecutors in Philadelphia with insider trading.

Kendricks, who signed a one-year contract with the Browns in June after winning a Super Bowl title last season with the Eagles, allegedly used tips from an acquaintance to make about $1.2 million in illegal profits on four major trading deals, federal prosecutors said.

The 27-year-old issued a statement earlier in the day admitting to his guilt and apologizing. He expressed regret and accepted "full responsibility" for his actions.

However, the Browns decided after learning more about the case that they couldn't go forward with Kendricks, who was going to start for the team. The Browns issued a statement after traveling to Detroit for Thursday night's exhibition finale against the Lions. Kendricks did not make the trip.

Kendricks is facing possible prison time and further discipline from the NFL for violating its personal conduct policy.

NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy said the league is reviewing the situation.

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