Browns Sign LB Tommy Smith, Release WR Perez Ashford

Fans who were rooting for local wide receiver Perez Ashford to make some noise with the Cleveland Browns will be disappointed to learn that the Shaker Heights native was released today, just a day before the final OTA session.

Taking Ashford's place on the 90-man roster is LB Tommy Smith out of Boise State. If his name sounds vaguely familiar to you, it should -- he participated in the team's rookie minicamp earlier this month on a tryout basis. A week or so ago, the Akron Beacon Journal reported that Smith was close to signing with the team. The report of an immediate signing ended up falling through, although the indication was that a signing could still be imminent. Here was some scouting information on Smith from when we previously looked at him:

Although Cleveland is intrigued by Smith’s ability to play fullback, a source says he is being brought in specifically to tryout at inside linebacker. Leading up to the 2013 NFL Draft, both Atlanta and Miami showed the most interest in Smith. I’m told Cleveland stepped up it’s pursuit after a multitude of trades left them with just five picks.

At 6-1, 237 lbs, Smith also has experience contributing on special teams. He registered 61 tackles and 1 sack last season.

At Boise State, Smith was former teammates with current Browns defensive lineman Billy Winn.