On March 11, 2006, the first day of free agency last year, the Browns signed center LeCharles Bentley to a large deal, as you can see in this post. We also signed offensive tackle Kevin Shaffer and wide receiver Joe Jurevicius on day one. This year, we only came to terms with one player on day one, but the excitement is just as extensive.
As reported earlier, the Browns signed offensive guard Eric Steinbach to a seven-year deal worth $49 million. Compare that to the Buffalo Bills, who signed a slightly lower rated lineman, Derrick Dockery, to a seven-year deal worth $49 million. Steinbach was a great signing, and after we were not able to get cornerback Nate Clements or linebacker Adalius Thomas, the No. 2 person on my free agent list is still available: Kris Dielman. The Bills signed three offensive linemen in one day, but if the Browns were able to lock up Dielman tomorrow, it would be absolutely incredible. We can't get our hopes up too high though, because I'm sure that the Seattle Seahawks made him a quality offer before his visit with the Browns.
- Mary Kay Cabot, Cleveland Plain Dealer
"We're very excited to have him," said coach Romeo Crennel. "We think he can really help us."
- Mary Kay Cabot, Cleveland Plain Dealer
- Niner's Nation for information on the team that made a huge splash on defensive players by locking up Clements and safety Michael Lewis.
- Hog's Haven has the scoop on the team signing former Bills linebacker London Fletcher.
- Pride of Detroit tells you about the trading of cornerback Dre Bly, as well as the trading of defensive end James Hall.
- Mile High Report knows the real deal on what is going on with quarterback Jake Plummer. Along the way, check out Buc'em's reaction on losing out on Plummer and Steinbach.