January 28, 2008

Crennel, Browns agree to extension
The Cleveland Plain Dealer
by Mary Kay Cabot

Browns coach Romeo Crennel agreed to terms on a two-year contract
extension Monday night, his agent Joe Linta said. The deal, through
2011, is believed to be in the $4 million-a-year range.

"Romeo is very happy to have this done," said Linta. "[Browns owner]
Randy Lerner took the opportunity to make sure that Romeo Crennel is the
face of the franchise for years to come and rewarded him for the fine
job he's done in helping to turn this franchise around. The ship is
headed in the right direction and the Browns recognize Romeo's value to
the organization."

Crennel had two years remaining on his original five-year deal. He was
unavailable for comment Monday night. Linta said the two sides have
agreed in principle but that the deal has not yet been signed.

The extension comes after Crennel led the Browns to an unanticipated
10-6 record after most national experts predicted they'd be lucky to win
six games. He also began the season on the hot seat after going 10-22 in
his first two seasons, including 1-11 against the AFC North.

But this year, Crennel rebounded to lead the Browns to a 3-3 mark
against their AFC North foes, including a sweep of the Ravens.

A defensive-minded coach who won three Super Bowl rings with the
Patriots, Crennel was instrumental in the ouster of defensive
coordinator Todd Grantham earlier this month and the promotion of
secondary coach Mel Tucker to coordinator.

Browns General Manager Phil Savage said in his season-ending press
conference that the Browns intended to extend Crennel's contract.
Negotiations began last Tuesday at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala.

Crennel's challenge will now be to improve the Browns' 30th-ranked defense.

Archived from group: alt>sports>football>pro>cleve-browns