The Browns are focusing their attention to the free-agent market and have already made contract offers to key players like quarterback Derek Anderson and running back Jamal Lewis. One of the Browns spokesman confirmed proposals were sent to the representative for both players, but he could not provide details about the length or value of the deals.


Derek Anderson, 24-year-old, who won 10 games and threw 29 touchdown passes in his first season as a starter, is scheduled to become a restricted free agent on Feb. 29. If the Browns can’t lock him up with a long-term deal before then, they can tender him with a one-year contract worth $2.52 million. Cleveland would then be able to match any contract offers made to Anderson by other teams or receive first and third-round draft picks as compensation if Anderson signs with another team.

Jamal Lewis, who can become an unrestricted free agent, rushed for 1,304 yards and nine TDs in his first season with the Browns, who signed him to a one-year, incentive-stuffed contract worth $5 million. Lewis said he wants to stay with Cleveland. However, keeping him could be a challenge as several other teams may attempt to sign the 28-year-old, who is coming off his most productive season since rushing for 2,066 yards for Baltimore in 2003.


Meanwhile, the Browns have yet to finalize a contract extension for coach Romeo Crennel. He led the Browns to a 10-6 turnaround in his third season and has two years remaining on a five-year package he signed in 2005.