The Browns were awarded running back/kick returner Fozzy Whittaker on waivers from San Diego on Monday, the club said.
In a corresponding roster move, the Browns waived wide receiver Josh Cooper.
A first-year pro from Texas, Whittaker returned six kickoffs for 156 yards in three 2013 regular-season games for the Chargers. The Browns have used reserve wideout Greg Little and backup running back Bobby Rainey on kickoffs this season.
Whittaker’s addition gives the Browns three running backs. Willis McGahee is the starter, with Rainey and Whittaker in reserve.
With Cooper exiting, the Browns are currently carrying four receivers: Josh Gordon, Davone Bess, Travis Benjamin and Little.
In another roster move Monday, the Browns released running back Montario Hardesty off injured reserve. A fourth-year pro, Hardesty had preseason knee surgery.