Undrafted free agent linebacker Andrew Sweat informed the Cleveland Browns that he has chosen not to play in the NFL. The Browns said as late as Thursday that they were expecting 37 players on the field Friday morning for rookie minicamp, but only 36 showed up as Sweat was a notable absentee. There was no word from Pat Shurmur or the club during the morning media availability, but in the afternoon, Shurmur announced that Sweat had changed his mind about pursuing a career in the NFL. Via Daryl Ruiter of 92.3 The Fan:
Pat Shurmur just told us OSU LB Andrew Sweat has decided be wont play in NFL
— Daryl Ruiter (@RuiterWrongFAN) May 11, 2012
Sweat was one of the first undrafted free agents the Browns signed, and he originally expressed excitement about his shot to play in the NFL. But the Buckeye linebacker was also passing on law school, which was a consideration before he signed with the Browns. His final Senior season was marred by a concussion and elbow injury, which combined with the law school acceptances, could have played a part in his decision to end his football career.
For more on the Cleveland Browns, head over to Dawgs By Nature. More news and analysis on the NFL in general as rookie minicamps start to heat up can be found at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.