Browns sign Cribbs to 6-year extension
Zac Jackson, Staff Writer
11.03.2006
In 17 months, Joshua Cribbs has gone from undrafted longshot to core player.
The Browns affirmed Cribbs' status -- and his importance -- by signing him to a six-year contract extension Friday that goes through the 2012 season.
Cribbs earned the extension with outstanding play on special teams and by showing steady improvement as a wide receiver. His 27.7-yard kickoff return average ranks third in the NFL, and he ranks second on the team with 9 special teams tackles.
Cribbs has five kickoff returns of 40 yards or more and has caught 9 passes for 81 yards through seven games.
"This is a dream come true for me," Cribbs said. "I want to thank Randy Lerner, Phil Savage and Romeo Crennel for giving me this opportunity. I love the city of Cleveland, our fans and I'm excited to have the longevity of being here for the future.
"It certainly feels good to be wanted, and now I'm motivated because I want to prove to this organization that they made the right decision."
The Browns had previously signed five players to long-term extensions since Romeo Crennel and Phil Savage came to the Browns in early 2005: Leigh Bodden, Andra Davis, Phil Dawson, Reuben Droughns and Orpheus Roye.
