Alex Mack to Sign with Falcons

In the past seven seasons, the Browns have had 13 starting quarterbacks, but have enjoyed one constant -- the same starting center.

The days of that luxury are over.

The Browns have lost free agent center Alex Mack to the Falcons.

#Browns C Alex Mack is headed to the #Falcons, source said. The 5-year deal is being finalized.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2016

Other reporters, including ESPN's Adam Schefter, have confirmed Ian Rapoport's report.

Mack's deal reportedly includes a significant chunk of guaranteed money, due to competition for Mack's services.

Key to the Alex Mack deal with the #Falcons is the guarantee. Essentially, the first two years are fully guaranteed, with plenty in Year 3

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 9, 2016

The Browns were expected to lose the two-time Pro Bowler after he opted out of his contact less than a month ago. Heading into the offseason, Mack told reporters winning was important, so his deal with the Falcons makes sense.

As Daryl Ruiter of 92.3 The Fan pointed out on Twitter, the Browns have won 22 of the 101 games Mack played in as a Brown. The Falcons have a 63-49 record since Mack entered the league in 2009. The Falcons did finish at 8-8, but the team has a franchise quarterback in Matt Ryan.

Mack fits with the Falcons offensive scheme, too. Atlanta runs a zone blocking scheme coordinated by Kyle Shanahan, a former Browns offensive coordinator.

Ex-Cle center Alex Mack will average @$9.5m in Atlanta deal. Could have made 500k more on ave in Cleve. Atl OC KShanahan a factor for Mack.

— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) March 9, 2016

Now, the question for the Browns becomes: Who will replace Mack at center? Can Cameron Erving do the job?

In the meantime, adios, Alex. Good luck in Atlanta.