Monday, August 4, 2008

Sources: Browns' Cribbs wants to tweak contract

Pro Bowl kick returner Joshua Cribbs wants to restructure his contract with the Cleveland Browns, multiple sources have told ESPN.com. But progress has been slow this summer because Cribbs has five years remaining on his current deal.

Sources: Browns' Cribbs wants to tweak contract

Cribbs

Cribbs signed a six-year contract worth just under $6 million before the 2007 season. Since then Cribbs has led the NFL in total return yards, in addition to leading the Browns in special teams tackles last year. Now, according to sources, Cribbs and his representation are seeking a pay increase and recently approached the Browns about their desire for a new deal.

Perhaps prompting even more urgency is the recent contract for Chicago Bears kick returner Devin Hester, who received a four-year extension worth up $40 million with $15 million guaranteed. Walker: Take Your PickSources: Browns' Cribbs wants to tweak contract

Joshua Cribbs or Devin Hester? Both are considered the best returners in their respective conferences and were Pro Bowlers last season. Blog

Both Cribbs and Hester are widely regarded as the top special teams players in their respective conferences, yet there is a big salary disparity between the two. Hester's average annual salary was bumped up to approximately $5.5 million, compared to Cribbs' annual average of $997,000. It's unknown at this point what type of deal Cribbs is seeking. But based on his production, it's likely Cribbs wants a contract comparable to Hester's in terms of guaranteed money. Cleveland is considered one of the up-and-coming teams in the NFL, coming off a 10-6 season that saw seven players make the Pro Bowl in 2007. But success also came with a price as players such as quarterback Derek Anderson, running back Jamal Lewis and defensive tackle Shaun Rogers all received sizable deals with Cleveland this offseason. Pro Bowl tight end Kellen Winslow Jr. also has expressed displeasure with his current contract. But general manager Phil Savage said publicly in June that the team is at or near its budget.




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