2007 Cleveland Browns season

2007 Cleveland Browns season
Head coach Romeo Crennel
Home field Cleveland Browns Stadium
Local radio WMMS · WTAM
Results
Record 10–6
Division Place 2nd AFC North
Playoff finish did not qualify
Uniform
Timeline
Previous season Next season
2006 2008

The 2007 Cleveland Browns season began with the Browns attempting to improve upon their 4–12 record from the 2006 season, in which the team finished in fourth place in the AFC North. The Browns also attempted to overcome the many injuries that plagued the team throughout the 2006 season. The Browns remained under the supervision of head coach Romeo Crennel and they played all of their home games in Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland, Ohio.

During the 2007 NFL Draft, the Browns selected Wisconsin offensive tackle Joe Thomas with the third overall selection.[1] The Browns were also able to draft Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn with the 22nd overall selection,[2] after completing a trade with the Dallas Cowboys[2] which saw the Browns send their second-round pick in the 2007 draft, along with their first-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft, to the Cowboys for their first-round selection at number 22.[2] The Browns completed their first-day draft by selecting UNLV cornerback Eric Wright,[3] following another trade with the Dallas[3] which saw the Browns giving up their third- and fourth-round picks in the 2007 draft and swapping sixth-round picks with the Cowboys.[3]

During the off-season, the Browns signed key free agents Eric Steinbach (Cincinnati, offensive guard),[4][5] Jamal Lewis (Baltimore, running back),[6] and Robaire Smith (Tennessee, defensive end).[7]

Contents

Off-season

Coaching staff changes

The Cleveland Browns' offense was marred by bad play-calling throughout the early stages of the 2006 season, forcing the resignation of the team's offensive coordinator, Maurice Carthon, on October 24, 2006.[8] Following Carthon's resignation, head coach Romeo Crennel hired assistant head coach and offensive line coach Jeff Davidson as the team's offensive coordinator for the remainder of the 2006 season.[9] However, the Browns have since lost Davidson to the Carolina Panthers, where he was hired to serve as the Panthers' offensive coordinator.[10] Because of Davidson's hiring in Carolina, the Browns have hired Rob Chudzinski as the team's new offensive coordinator.[11] The team has also hired Ted Daisher as the team's new special teams coordinator.[12]

Other coaching staff changes made by the Browns in the 2007 off-season include the hiring of Steve Marshall as the offensive line coach;[13] Tom Myslinski as the strength-and-conditioning coach;[13] Alan DeGennaro as the assistant strength-and-conditioning coach;[13] Dave Atkins as the senior offensive assistant coach;[14] Anthony Lynn as the running backs coach;[14] Rip Scherer as the assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach;[14] and Alfredo Roberts as the tight ends coach.[15]

On June 14, defensive coordinator Todd Grantham's contract was extended by two years, allowing him to remain with the Browns through the 2009 season.[16]

Roster changes

The Cleveland Browns had one of the busiest off-seasons in terms of movement in the NFL. Beginning on March 3, 2007, the Browns signed former Cincinnati Bengals offensive guard Eric Steinbach to a seven-year contract[4][5] and former Houston Texans outside linebacker Antwan Peek to a three-year contract;[17] the team also resigned center Hank Fraley to a four-year contract,[18] fearing that center LeCharles Bentley's 2006 season-ending knee injury may also be a career-ending injury.

The following day, March 4, the Browns signed former Washington Redskins cornerback Kenny Wright to a three-year contract.[19] One day later, on March 5, the Browns lost wide receiver and punt returner Dennis Northcutt to the Jacksonville Jaguars under the terms of a five-year contract.[20]

On March 8, the team signed former Baltimore Ravens running back Jamal Lewis to a one-year contract,[6] bolstering the team's lackluster running game. Because of Lewis's signing, running back Reuben Droughns had been made expendable,[21] and was subsequently traded to the New York Giants for wide receiver Tim Carter on March 9.[22]

Also on March 9, the Browns terminated the contract of veteran cornerback Daylon McCutcheon,[23] citing that he failed a physical, and lost safety Brian Russell to the Seattle Seahawks,[24] though the terms of Russell's deal were not disclosed.

Nerly a week later, on March 14, the Browns terminated the contract of fullback Terrelle Smith, prior to having to pay Smith a due roster bonus;[25][26] the team also signed former Miami Dolphins offensive guard Seth McKinney to a one-year contract[26][27] and former Tennessee Titans defensive end Robaire Smith to a four-year contract.[7] On March 16, the Browns signed former Bengals defensive tackle Shaun Smith to a four-year contract.[28] Four days later, on March 20, the team re-signed offensive guard Lennie Friedman to a one-year contract;[29] the team also lost defensive end Alvin McKinley to the Denver Broncos.[30]

On March 29, it was revealed that Browns general manager Phil Savage entered in to talks with the Kansas City Chiefs' general manager Carl Peterson regarding their veteran quarterback, Trent Green.[31] However, Green has since been traded to the Miami Dolphins.[32]

On April 2, the team signed former San Francisco 49ers safety Mike Adams to a two-year contract.[33] On April 14, the Browns re-signed veteran tight end Steve Heiden to a four-year contract extension,[34] though terms of his deal were not disclosed. On April 16, the Browns signed former Ravens fullback Alan Ricard to a one-year contract,[35] though terms of his deal were not disclosed; the team also formally announced the signing of former San Diego Chargers tight end Ryan Krause, though the date he was signed and the terms of his deal were not disclosed.[35] On April 19, the Browns re-signed defensive tackle Ethan Kelley to the terms of a one-year contract.[36]

On April 25, the Browns resigned free agents Simon Fraser and Mason Unck each to one-year contracts.[37] On April 27, the Browns resigned free agent offensive lineman Nat Dorsey to a one-year contract.[38] On May 2, the team waived offensive lineman Joe Andruzzi.[39] Following his release, Andruzzi was hospitalized with lymphoma.[40] The Browns release a statement wishing Andruzzi well,[41] though it is not known whether his ailment is the reason the Browns released Andruzzi.

On May 3, the Browns announced the signings of nine undrafted free agents.[42] Those players are: Jesse Ainsworth, a placekicker from Arizona State;[42] Charles Ali, a fullback from Arkansas (Pine Bluff);[42] Mike Alston, a linebacker from Toledo;[42] Rick Drushal, an offensive lineman from Wooster;[42] Hunter Funtaine, a linebacker from Vanderbilt;[42] Mike Mason, a wide receiver from Tennessee State;[42] Tyrone Moss, a halfback from Miami (Florida);[42] Brent Pousson, an offensive lineman from McNeese State;[42] and Scott Stephenson, an offensive lineman from Iowa State.[42] The team also signed three try-out rookies on May 8, signing linebacker Kevin Sears, offensive lineman Cliff Louis and running back Jerome Jackson.[43]

On June 17, the Browns waived cornerback Antonio Perkins, fullback Alan Ricard, and offensive linemen Brent Pousson and Scott Stephenson.[44] On June 26, the team waived safety Ben Emanuel and claimed former Tampa Bay Buccaneer wide receiver Efrem Hill from waivers.[45]

2007 NFL Draft

Prior to the 2007 NFL Draft, the Browns were set to utilize either the third pick or fourth pick of the first round.[46] This discrepancy was because the Browns and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had similar records and strength-of-schedule averages.[47] After the coin toss, it was determined that the Browns will use the third pick of the draft.[48] The 2007 NFL Draft was held on April 28 and 29 2007 in New York City, New York.[47]

Draft Player name Position College Height Weight
Rnd Pick
1 3 Joe Thomas Offensive tackle Wisconsin 6 ft 6 in 313 lbs
22 Brady Quinn Quarterback Notre Dame 6 ft 3 in 226 lbs
2 53 Eric Wright Cornerback UNLV 5 ft 11 in 190 lbs
5 140 Brandon McDonald Cornerback Memphis 5 ft 11 in 181 lbs
6 200 Melila Purcell Defensive end Hawaii 6 ft 5 in 269 lbs
7 213 Chase Pittman Defensive end LSU 6 ft 5 in 273 lbs
234 Syndric Steptoe Wide receiver Arizona 5 ft 9 in 182 lbs

The Cleveland Browns had one of the best first-day drafts of any team.[49] The Browns selected Wisconsin offensive tackle Joe Thomas with the third overall pick of the draft,[1] after many had predicted that the Browns would select Notre Dame quarterback Brady Quinn or Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson. However, the Browns selected Quinn with the 22nd selection of the draft,[2] following a trade with the Dallas Cowboys[2] which saw the Browns send their second-round pick of the 2007 draft and their first-round pick of the 2008 NFL Draft to the Cowboys for their first-round pick at number 22.[2] During the second round of the draft, the Browns made another trade with the Cowboys,[3] this time using the selection to pick UNLV cornerback Eric Wright.[3] The Browns gave up their third- and fourth-round picks of the draft, and swapped their sixth-round pick with the Cowboys.[3]

On the second day of the draft, the Browns looked to fill holes which were left by departing players through free agency. In the fifth round, the Browns drafted Memphis cornerback Brandon McDonald;[50] in the sixth round, the Browns drafted Hawaii defensive end Melila Purcell;[51] and in the seventh round, the Browns drafted LSU defensive end Chase Pittman[52] and Arizona wide receiver Syndric Steptoe.[52]

On July 18, the Browns signed the first of their seven draft picks, signing Pittman to a four-year contract.[53] On July 22, the Browns signed three more draft picks, this time singing McDonald, Purcell and Steptoe each to four-year contracts.[54] Steptoe is likely to compete to be the team's starting punt-returner heading into the 2007 season.[52] On July 26, the Browns signed Thomas to a six-year contract (voidable after five years)[55] and Wright to a four-year contract.[55] Thomas and Wright will look to battle to become the starters at left tackle and cornerback respectively.[55]

Until August 7, the Browns and Brady Quin could not agree on a contract, and the quarterback missed nearly two weeks of training camp. The parties then agreed, in principle,[56] to a contract. Hours later, the team and Quinn finalized the contract, and Quinn signed with the team under the terms of a five-year contract.[56] The contract is worth $20 million.[57]

Roster

Cleveland Browns 2007 final roster
Quarterbacks

Running Backs

Wide Receivers

Tight Ends

 Offensive Linemen

Defensive Linemen

 Linebackers

Defensive Backs

Special Teams

 Reserve Lists

Practice Squad

Rookies in italics

Schedules

Week Date Kickoff TV Opponent Results Site Box score
Final score Team record
Pre-season
1 August 11 7:30 PM WKYC Kansas City Chiefs W 16-12 1-0 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
2 August 18 7:00 PM WKYC Detroit Lions L 23-20 1-1 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
3 August 25 9:00 PM WKYC @ Denver Broncos W 17-16 2-1 Invesco Field at Mile High GameCenter
4 August 30 8:00 PM WKYC @ Chicago Bears W 19-9 3-1 Soldier Field GameCenter
Regular season
1 September 09 1:00 PM CBS Pittsburgh Steelers † L 34-7 0-1 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
2 September 16 1:00 PM CBS Cincinnati Bengals † W 51-45 1-1 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
3 September 23 4:05 PM CBS @ Oakland Raiders ‡ L 26-24 1-2 McAfee Coliseum GameCenter
4 September 30 1:00 PM CBS Baltimore Ravens † W 27-13 2-2 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
5 October 07 1:00 PM CBS @ New England Patriots ‡ L 34-17 2-3 Gillette Stadium GameCenter
6 October 14 1:00 PM CBS Miami Dolphins ‡ W 41-31 3-3 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
7 Bye  
8 October 28 1:00 PM CBS @ St. Louis Rams # W 27-20 4-3 Edward Jones Dome GameCenter
9 November 04 4:05 PM FOX Seattle Seahawks # W 33-30 (OT) 5-3 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
10 November 11 1:00 PM CBS @ Pittsburgh Steelers † L 31-28 5-4 Heinz Field GameCenter
11 November 18 1:00 PM CBS @ Baltimore Ravens † W 33-30 (OT) 6-4 M&T Bank Stadium GameCenter
12 November 25 1:00 PM CBS Houston Texans ‡ W 27-17 7-4 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
13 December 02 4:05 PM CBS @ Arizona Cardinals # L 27-21 7-5 University of Phoenix Stadium GameCenter
14 December 09 4:15 PM CBS @ New York Jets ‡ W 24-18 8-5 Giants Stadium GameCenter
15 December 16 1:00 PM CBS Buffalo Bills ‡ W 8-0 9-5 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
16 December 23 1:00 PM CBS @ Cincinnati Bengals † L 19-14 9-6 Paul Brown Stadium GameCenter
17 December 30 1:00 PM FOX San Francisco 49ers # W 20-7 10-6 Cleveland Browns Stadium GameCenter
Legend: Home games in bold; † Intraconference division game; ‡ Intraconference non-division game; # Interconference game; All times in Eastern Time

Standings

AFC North
W L T PCT DIV CONF PF PA STK
y (4) Pittsburgh Steelers 10 6 0 .625 5–1 7–5 393 269 L1
Cleveland Browns 10 6 0 .625 3–3 7–5 402 382 W1
Cincinnati Bengals 7 9 0 .438 3–3 6–6 380 385 W2
Baltimore Ravens 5 11 0 .313 1–5 2–10 275 384 W1

Regular season week-by-week results

Paul Ernster signed

Prior to the team's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Browns signed punter Paul Ernster to punt in place of Dave Zastudil in the team's week one season opener.[58] To make room for Ernster on the team's roster, the Browns waived cornerback Jereme Perry.[58]

Week 1: vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

1 2 3 4 Total
Steelers 17 0 14 3 34
Browns 0 0 7 0 7

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

The Cleveland Browns opened the regular season at home in Cleveland Browns Stadium against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who entered the game under the direction of the team's new head coach, Mike Tomlin. The two teams were tied in their overall series with 55 wins apiece. However, the Browns' ended the day with a 34–7 loss to the Steelers.

A number of Browns errors gave Pittsburgh opportunities to take a first quarter lead. After being stopped on their first possession, the Browns were forced to punt. Paul Ernster fumbled the snap which resulted in a poor kick, and the Browns were called for four penalties on the play. The Steelers took possession on the Browns' 22-yard line and scored on a 5-yard touchdown pass from Ben Ben Roethlisberger to Hines Ward. On the Browns' next possession, Charlie Frye threw an interception to Deshea Townsend, which eventually led to the Steelers' second score of the game, a 26-yard field goal by Jeff Reed. The Brown next possession ended when Jamal Lewis fumbled the ball at the Browns' 40-yard line. The Steelers quickly converted the turnover, with Roethlisberger completing a 40-yard touchdown pass to Santonio Holmes on the next play to bring the score to 17–0.

After being sacked five times and throwing for only 34 yards on 4-of-10 passing, Frye was removed from the game and was replaced by second-string quarterback Derek Anderson. In the second quarter, Willie Parker fumbled the ball and gave the Browns possession. However, the team was forced to punt, and just two drives later, the Browns fumbled the ball again — this time on a sack by Ryan Clark of Anderson. The Browns were able to hold the Steelers scoreless through the second quarter as Roethlisberger failed to connect on his last six pass attempts of the quarter. However, the Steelers also held the Browns scoreless, and the teams entered halftime with the Steelers ahead 17–0.

The second half began well for the Steelers, with an eight play, 71-yard drive that ended in a 5-yard touchdown pass to rookie Matt Spaeth. The Browns countered with a long drive of 76 yards that ended with a one-yard touchdown pass from Anderson to second-year fullback Lawrence Vickers, cutting the deficit to 24–7. However, this would be the Browns' only score of the game. On the next drive, the Steelers answered with a 22-yard touchdown pass from Roethlisberger to Heath Miller, giving the Steelers a 31–7 advantage. The Browns punted on their next possession, and the Steelers capped an eight-minute drive with a 31-yard field goal by Reed, giving the Steelers a 34–7 lead which they never surrendered. On the Browns' next offensive possession, Braylon Edwards dropped a pass from Anderson which was ruled a fumble. Following a Steelers punt, Anderson threw an interception to Ike Taylor on a pass intended for Edwards, and Steelers quarterback Charlie Batch ran the clock out, securing the win.

The loss put the Browns record at 0–1, and allowed the Steelers to take a one-game lead in the overall series, 56 wins to 55. Following the game, head coach Romeo Crennel stated that he didn't know who would start at quarterback in the next game versus the Cincinnati Bengals.[60] He also stood by his decision not to insert rookie Brady Quinn into the game, even after chants were heard from the home crowd hoping otherwise.[60]

Scoring drives

Charlie Frye traded

On Tuesday, September 11, the Browns traded Frye, who was expected to start against the Bengals in week two, to the Seattle Seahawks for a sixth-round draft choice.[61] The Browns are the first team since 1970 to trade their starting quarterback before Week 2.[62] The team's general manager, Phil Savage, stated that Anderson was to be named the team's new starting quarterback, with Quinn moving up the depth chart to be Anderson's backup.[63] The Browns also re-signed Ken Dorsey, whom the team had cut just ten days earlier, to be the team's third-string quarterback and mentor to Quinn.[61]

Week 2: vs. Cincinnati Bengals

1 2 3 4 Total
Bengals 7 14 17 7 45
Browns 6 21 14 10 51

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

The Browns remained at home for their Week 2 game with their interstate rivals, the Cincinnati Bengals. Coming into the game, the Bengals held a one-game advantage over the Browns in the all-time series, 34–33 .[66] However, the Browns defeated the Bengals in a high-scoring contest, 51–45, which saw 12 offensive touchdowns – and tied the overall series between the two teams at 34 wins each.

The game opened with a 13-yard touchdown pass from Carson Palmer to running back Rudi Johnson – the first receiving touchdown of his career.[67] After a Cleveland punt, safety Sean Jones intercepted a Palmer pass intended for Chad Johnson, which gave the Browns possession. However, they were unable to score a touchdown, and scored with a 39-yard Phil Dawson field goal instead. After a Bengals punt, Dawson kicked another 39-yard field goal before the end of the quarter.

The Bengals began the second quarter with Rudi Johnson fumbling the football, which was recovered by cornerback Leigh Bodden. Derek Anderson, starting after the team's trade of Charlie Frye during the week, completed a pass to Joe Jurevicius in the back of the endzone for a 17-yard touchdown, putting the Browns ahead 13–7. The Bengals countered with another touchdown pass, this time a 23-yard pass to T. J. Houshmandzadeh. Browns head coach Romeo Crennel challenged the ruling on the field that the receiver was in bounds on the catch, but the officials upheld the call. On the ensuing kickoff, Josh Cribbs returned the ball 88 yards to the Bengals' 11-yard line. The drive was capped off with a 9-yard pass from Anderson to Jurevicius, giving him his second touchdown reception of the game and putting the Browns ahead 20–14. The Bengals answered the Browns' touchdown pass with another score of their own, this time a 22-yard pass to Chad Johnson. Johnson was wide open in the endzone, uncovered because Bodden had slipped. After his catch, Johnson attempted to find the Browns' Dawg Pound so he could jump into it and keep his pregame promise to do so if he scored. He was unable to do so, though, since he had scored in the end zone opposite the Dawg Pound. Following the Bengals' score, the Browns answered with a 97-yard kickoff return to Cincinnati's four-yard line by Cribbs; however, due to several penalties on the play, it was called back. Though the team was penalized, Anderson eventually threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Kellen Winslow II to give the Browns a 27–21 lead at halftime.

The Bengals began the third quarter with a Dexter Jackson interception of Anderson, and the team gained ground on the Browns with a 20-yard Shayne Graham field goal. On the Browns' next drive, Anderson hooked up with Braylon Edwards for a 34-yard touchdown pass, allowing the Browns to increase their lead to ten points once again, 34–24. However, just as in the first half, the Bengals answered the Browns' score with a score of their own, a 14-yard touchdown pass to Chad Johnson. Carrying out his promise, Johnson leaped into the Dawg Pound, where a fan poured beer onto him.[68] With the Bengals only trailing by three points, running back Jamal Lewis exploded out of the backfield and ran 66 yards for a touchdown to increase the Browns' lead back to ten points. Five minutes later, on the next drive, Carson Palmer hit T. J. Houshmandzadeh once again, this time a 5-yard touchdown pass, to bring the Browns' lead back to three. The Browns' next drive was cut short on a fourth-and-short rushing attempt by fullback Lawrence Vickers; however, the Bengals were forced to punt on their next drive, and managed to down the ball inside the Browns' ten-yard line.

The Browns answered the Bengals' third-quarter touchdown with a 37-yard pass from Anderson to Edwards, once again increasing the lead to ten points, 48–38. After another punt by the Bengals, Phil Dawson kicked his third field goal of the game, from 18 yards, to give the Browns a 13 point lead. With time running down, Palmer led his team to yet another score, this time on a 7-yard pass to Glenn Holt, to cut the Browns' lead to six points. However, this would be the final scoring drive of the game; the Browns punted on their next possession, which was followed by a Leigh Bodden interception of a Palmer pass in Browns territory as Palmer was attempting to lead his team on a quick scoring drive. The play was reviewed by officials but upheld, allowing Derek Anderson to take a knee to run the clock out and win his first game as a starting quarterback.

Browns' quarterback Derek Anderson tied a franchise record with five touchdown passes in the game.[67] Running back Jamal Lewis also became the first Browns running back in more than 20 years, rushing for 215 yards on 22 carries and scoring a touchdown. Wide receiver Braylon Edwards and tight end Kellen Winslow also added more than 100 yards receiving each: Edwards had eight receptions for 146 yards with two touchdowns, and Winslow had six catches for 100 yards and a touchdown. The teams' combined score at the end of the game was 96 points; the teams together scored 106 points in a game in 2004. The rivals now own two of the top scoring games in the history of the league. Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer also set a franchise record with his six touchdown passes,[67] while wide receiver Chad Johnson became the franchise's all-time leader in receiving yards.[68] It was only the third time in NFL history that two quarterbacks had thrown at least five touchdown passes in the same game.[62]

Scoring drives

Scott Player signed

On September 18, the team signed punter Scott Player to serve as an insurance policy in case Dave Zastudil was unable to play in the Browns' week three game against the Oakland Raiders.[69] The Browns released punter Paul Ernster to make room for Player on the team's roster.[69]

AFC Player of the Week

For his performance against the Bengals, quarterback Derek Anderson was named the AFC Player of the Week.[70] Anderson was 20-for-33 passing with five touchdowns and one interception for a passer rating of 121.0.[70]

Week 3: at Oakland Raiders

1 2 3 4 Total
Browns 0 10 7 7 24
Raiders 3 13 7 3 26

at McAfee Coliseum, Oakland, California

The Cleveland Browns traveled to Oakland for their first road game of the season to face the Oakland Raiders. Historically, the Browns and the Raiders split their all-time series at 27 games a piece heading into week three's game.[73] The Browns had won six of their last seven meetings with the Raiders,[73] but the team fell short by a final score of 26–24, allowing the Raiders to end their eleven-game losing streak.[74]

The Browns' first drive was marred by three penalties and a sack, forcing the team into an almost-impossible 3rd-and-40 situation. The Browns were forced to punt, but held the Raiders to a three-and-out series on their first drive. However, the Browns were forced to punt again on their second drive, and allowed the Raiders to score the first points of the game on a 32-yard Sebastian Janikowski field goal, putting the Raiders up 3–0. The Browns' next drive ended prematurely, as quarterback Derek Anderson was intercepted by Raiders linebacker Thomas Howard, who returned the interception 26 yards. The Raiders' next drive was stalled by the Browns, forcing the team to kick a field goal, this time a 22-yard field goal. The Browns were forced to punt again on their next drive, and the Raiders were able to score on a 41-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Josh McCown to wide receiver Ronald Curry. The score was made possible by a brilliant play-action fake which caused rookie cornerback Eric Wright to bite on the fake, allowing Curry to run untouched to the endzone. The Browns' next drive was once again ended by an interception, as Kirk Morrison picked Anderson off and returned the interception 45 yards before being tackled by Braylon Edwards to save the touchdown. The Raiders were held to a field goal, this time 23 yards, despite their outstanding field position, increasing their lead to 16–0. On the kickoff, however, returner Josh Cribbs managed to break down the Raiders' defense en route to a 99-yard kickoff return touchdown, putting the Browns on the board for the first time in the game. The Raiders then fumbled on their next possession, allowing defensive end Simon Fraser to fall on the loose ball. Anderson then led the Browns down the field to a 23-yard Phil Dawson field goal, bringing the Browns within six points as the first half came to a close.

Raiders quarterback McCown was replaced by Daunte Culpepper at the start of the second half due to an ankle injury he sustained on a play in which defensive end Robaire Smith fell on his leg during a tackle. Culpepper's entrance into the game was met with a loud series of cheers from Raiders fans, who have wanted to see Culpepper on the field all year. His first drive leading the Raiders in the second half ended with a punt, but the Raiders held the Browns to a three-and-out, forcing another Browns punt. However, on the Raiders' next drive, a 24-yard pass from Culpepper to wide receiver Mike Williams was fumbled and recovered by cornerback Daven Holly. The Browns capitalized on the momentum from the fumble and scored six quick points on a 21-yard pass from Anderson to Edwards, bringing the Browns to within nine points of the Raiders. However, the Raiders' next drive culminated in a one-yard touchdown run by running back Lamont Jordan, increasing the Raiders' lead to 23–17 while taking more than nine minutes off the game clock. The Browns were forced into a three-and-out on their next possession, and allowed the Raiders to score three more fourth-quarter points on a 48-yard Janikowski field goal, capping the Raiders' scoring for the day at 26, putting them ahead 26–17. The Browns would answer back on their next drive as Anderson scrambled from the pocket and scored on a one-yard touchdown run to bring the Browns within two points of the lead. After a Raider punt, the Browns were forced into their two-minute offense and had to get the ball within field goal range to have a chance of winning the game. The Browns managed to get the ball to the Oakland 22-yard line, and the field goal unit took the field with three seconds left on the clock. Kicker Phil Dawson managed to hit the field goal from 40 yards out; however, Raiders coach Lane Kiffin called a timeout just moments before Dawson kicked the ball, effectively icing his kick. With one more chance, the Browns lined up for the field goal again. This time, however, Dawson's field goal was blocked by Tommy Kelly, ending the Browns' chances for a comeback win.

With the win, the Raiders ended their eleven-game losing streak and took the lead in the overall series between the two teams, 28–27. Derek Anderson, despite his somewhat disappointing performance, put up nearly 250 yards passing for the second straight week, though running back Jamal Lewis was held to just 56 yards on 15 carries. With the loss, the Browns have extended their already long streak of games without winning two in a row. That last happened the final game of the 2003 season and the first game of 2004.

Scoring drives

Week 4: vs. Baltimore Ravens

1 2 3 4 Total
Ravens 0 6 0 7 13
Browns 14 10 3 0 27

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

Coming off their last-second road loss to the Raiders, the Browns went home for an AFC North duel with the Baltimore Ravens, as RB Jamal Lewis would go up against his former team. In the first quarter, Cleveland got off to a surprisingly fast start with QB Derek Anderson (another former Raven) completed a 2-yard TD pass to WR Joe Jurevicius. Immediately after the defense intercepted QB Steve McNair, the Browns cashed in with Anderson completing a 78-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards. In the second quarter, Baltimore would get on the board with kicker Matt Stover getting a 21-yard field goal. Cleveland would answer kicker Phil Dawson nailing a 41-yard field goal, along with Lewis getting a 1-yard TD run.

In the third quarter, the Browns increased its lead with Dawson kicking a 20-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, the Ravens tried to mount a comeback with McNair completing a 4-yard TD pass to TE Quinn Sypniewski. Fortunately, Cleveland's defense held on to win.

With an impressive win, the Browns improved to 2–2.

Scoring drives

AFC Player of the Month

For his performance in his team's return game, including a 99-yard kick return for a touchdown against the Raiders, kick returner Josh Cribbs was named the AFC's Special Teams Player of the Month for the month of September. Cribbs led all return men with 549 punt and kick return yards in the month and had three returns of 30 yards or more.[76]

Week 5: at New England Patriots

1 2 3 4 Total
Browns 0 0 3 14 17
Patriots 10 10 0 14 34

at Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, Massachusetts

Coming off their divisional home win over the Ravens, the Browns flew to Gillette Stadium for a Week 5 intraconference duel with the New England Patriots. In the first quarter, Cleveland trailed early as Patriots kicker Stephen Gostkowski got a 20-yard field goal, while QB Tom Brady completed a 34-yard TD pass to WR Donté Stallworth. In the second quarter, the Browns continued to struggle as Gostkowski gave New England a 25-yard field goal, while Brady completed a 7-yard TD pass to TE Benjamin Watson.

In the third quarter, Cleveland tried to come back with kicker Phil Dawson getting a 42-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, the Browns drew closer with QB Derek Anderson completing a 21-yard TD pass to WR Tim Carter. However, the Patriots resonded with Brady and Watson hooking up with each other on a 25-yard TD pass. The Browns tried to catch up with Anderson completing a 14-yard TD pass to TE Kellen Winslow. New England sealed its win with CB Randall Gay returning a fumble 19 yards for a touchdown.

With the loss, Cleveland fell to 2–3.

Scoring drives

Week 6: vs. Miami Dolphins

1 2 3 4 Total
Dolphins 3 7 14 7 31
Browns 14 13 0 14 41

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Patriots, the Browns went home and played a Week 6 intraconference duel with the winless Miami Dolphins. In the first quarter, Cleveland drew first blood with RB Jason Wright getting a 1-yard TD run. The Dolphins answered with kicker Jay Feely getting a 43-yard field goal, yet the Browns would respond with QB Derek Anderson getting a 1-yard TD run. In the second quarter, Cleveland continued its pounding with kicker Phil Dawson getting a 40-yard field goal, along with Anderson completing a 24-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards. The Dolphins would respond with QB Cleo Lemon completing a 14-yard TD pass to TE David Martin. Afterwards, the Browns would end the half with kicker Phil Dawson nailing a 20-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Miami managed to shrink Cleveland's lead with Lemon getting a 5-yard and a 1-yard TD run. Fortunately, in the fourth quarter, the Browns would put the game out of reach as Anderson and Edwards hooking up with each other again on a 5-yard and a 16-yard TD pass. Afterwards, the Dolphins only response was Lemon's 4-yard TD pass to Martin.

With the win, the Browns entered their bye week at 3–3.

Scoring Drives

Week 8: at St. Louis Rams

1 2 3 4 Total
Browns 3 14 7 3 27
Rams 14 3 3 0 20

at Edward Jones Dome, St. Louis, Missouri

Coming off their bye week, the Browns flew to the Edward Jones Dome for a Week 8 interconference duel with the winless St. Louis Rams. In the first quarter, Cleveland trailed early as Rams RB Steven Jackson got a 2-yard TD run, along with QB Marc Bulger completing a 1-yard TD pass to WR Torry Holt. The Browns responded with kicker Phil Dawson getting a 35-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Cleveland took the lead with QB Derek Anderson completing a 12-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards and a 21-yard TD pass to TE Kellen Winslow. St. Louis managed to tie the game prior to halftime with kicker Jeff Wilkins getting a 40-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Browns jumped back into the lead as Anderson and Edwards hooked up with each other on a 5-yard TD pass. The Rams replied with Wilkins kicking a 46-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Cleveland got the only score of the period and the victory as Dawson nailed a 45-yard field goal.

With the win, not only did the Browns improve to 4–3, but it would mark the first time since 2003 that Cleveland managed to get back-to-back wins in one season.

Scoring Drives

Week 9: vs. Seattle Seahawks

1 2 3 4 OT Total
Seahawks 7 14 3 6 0 30
Browns 0 9 7 14 3 33

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

The Browns returned home to face the NFC West-leading Seattle Seahawks in a late afternoon game. The Seahawks struck first as Matt Hasselbeck found Bobby Engram for a 5-yard touchdown pass. The Browns struck back in the 2nd quarter as Jamal Lewis scored on a 2-yard run, but Phil Dawson missed the extra point. The Seahawks then scored twice more to put the Browns in a hole, first on a Hasselbeck 6-yard pass to D.J. Hackett, then on a 94-yard punt return by Nate Burleson. Dawson would add a 19-yard field goal to make the score 21–9 at the half.

In the second half, Cleveland opened up with a long drive capped off by Jamal Lewis' 1-yard run for a touchdown. After Josh Brown kicked a field goal for the Seahawks, Lewis scored again from 2 yards out. The Browns tried for two points after this touchdown, but failed to convert. Brown then kicked another field goal to make the score 27–22 with about 7 minutes to play. The Browns drove 89 yards to take the lead for the first time in the game, with Lewis scoring his career-high fourth rushing touchdown of the game. The Browns again went for two, and this time Derek Anderson found Joe Jurevicius for the conversion to put the Browns up by three. The Seahawks then drove down for a game-tying field goal by Brown. In overtime, the Seahawks had the ball first, but were stopped on a 4th-and-1 play, turning the ball over on downs. Cleveland was then able to drive into field goal range, and Dawson kicked a 25-yard field goal for the victory, the Browns' third win in a row (the first time that they had achieved this since 2001).

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 10: at Pittsburgh Steelers

1 2 3 4 Total
Browns 7 14 0 7 28
Steelers 3 6 7 15 31

at Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

  • Game time: 1:00 PM EST
  • Game weather: 40 °F (4 °C) (Cloudy)
  • Game attendance: 64,781
  • Referee: Ron Winter
  • TV announcers (CBS): Jim Nantz (play-by-play) & Phil Simms (color commentator)

Coming off their overtime home win over the Seahawks, the Browns flew to Heinz Field for Round 2 of the 2007 Rust Belt series with the Pittsburgh Steelers. In the first quarter, Cleveland got off to a fast start as QB Derek Anderson completed a 4-yard TD pass to TE Kellen Winslow. The Steelers would respond with kicker Jeff Reed getting a 28-yard field goal. In the second quarter, the Browns increased their lead with Anderson completing a 2-yard TD pass to FB Lawrence Vickers, while Pittsburgh only managed to have Reed kick 35-yard field goal. Afterwards, Cleveland continued its early pounding with Anderson completing a 16-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards, who managed to keep the tips of his feet inbounds. The Steelers would end the half with Reed kicking a 30-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Pittsburgh began to rally as QB Ben Roethlisberger completed a 12-yard TD pass to WR Hines Ward for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, the Steelers took the lead as Roethlisberger got a 30-yard TD run. Fortunately, the Browns immediately responded as WR/KR Josh Cribbs returned a kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown. However, Pittsburgh regained the lead with Roethlisberger completing a 2-yard TD pass to TE Heath Miller. Cleveland managed to get a late drive and tried to force overtime, but kicker Phil Dawson's 53-yard field goal attempt fell short.

With their ninth-straight loss to the Steelers, the Browns fell to 5–4.

Edwards' only catch of the game, a 16-yard TD reception, gave him his 10th TD reception on the year. This would be the most in franchise history since 1969.

Scoring Drives

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Extra point Drive Score
1 Browns 4:10 Anderson 4-yard pass to Winslow Dawson kick 16 plays, 71 yards, 8:55 7–0 CLE
1 Steelers 1:29 Reed 28-yard field goal 7, 52, 2:41 7–3 CLE
2 Browns 14:56 Anderson 2 yard pass to Vickers Dawson kick 4, 3, 1:33 14–3 CLE
2 Steelers 9:02 Reed 35-yard field goal 10, 54, 5:54 14–6 CLE
2 Browns 5:24 Anderson 16-yard pass to Edwards Dawson kick 3, 18, 0:59 21–6 CLE
2 Steelers :04 Reed 35-yard field goal 15, 57, 5:20 21–9 CLE
3 Steelers 6:14 Roethlisberger 12-yard pass to Ward Reed kick 4, 38, 2:04 21–16 CLE
4 Steelers 11:32 Roethlisberger 30-yard run Roethlisberger pass to Ward 7, 66, 3:15 24–21 PIT
4 Browns 11:14 Cribbs 100-yard kickoff return Dawson kick no drive, 0:18 28–24 CLE
4 Steelers 3:13 Roethlisberger 2-yard pass to Miller Reed kick 14, 78, 8:01 31–28 PIT

Week 11: at Baltimore Ravens

1 2 3 4 OT Total
Browns 3 10 14 3 3 33
Ravens 0 7 7 16 0 30

at M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore, Maryland

Hoping to rebound from their last-second road loss to the Steelers, the Browns flew to M&T Bank Stadium for an AFC North rematch with the Baltimore Ravens. In the first quarter, Cleveland drew first blood as kicker Phil Dawson mananged to get a 28-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Browns increased its lead as RB Jamal Lewis (in his first game back in Baltimore) managed to get a 1-yard touchdown. The Ravens managed to get on the board with LB Ray Lewis returning an interception 35 yards for a touchdown. Fortunately, Cleveland responded with Dawson kicking a 39-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, Baltimore took the lead with RB Willis McGahee getting a 2-yard TD run. Fortunately, the Browns replied with QB Derek Anderson getting a 1-yard TD run, while Safety Brodney Pool returned an interception 100 yards for a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, the Ravens tied the game with kicker Matt Stover (a former Brown) managed to kick a 34-yard & a 41-yard field goal, while QB Kyle Boller completed a 27-yard TD pass to WR Devard Darling. Afterwards, Baltimore retook the lead with Stover kicking a 47-yard field goal. Cleveland tried to make a comeback, as they managed to get into field goal range. Initially, Dawson's 51-yard attempt was ruled no good. However, it turns out that the ball bounced off the upright, went in, bounced off the support bar, and then went back onto the field. In the end, the Browns were awarded the field goal. In overtime, Cleveland sealed the Ravens' fate as Dawson nailed the game-winning 33-yard field goal.

With the win, not only did the Browns improve to 6–4, but it also marked the first time since 2001 that Cleveland swept Baltimore.

WR/KR/PR Josh Cribbs became the 3rd NFL player since the AFL-NFL merger of 1970 to have 300+ return yards in one game.

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 12: vs. Houston Texans

1 2 3 4 Total
Texans 7 3 0 7 17
Browns 0 14 3 10 27

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

Coming off their season-sweeping road win over the Ravens, the Browns went home for a Week 12 duel with the Houston Texans. In the first quarter, Cleveland trailed early as Texans QB Matt Schaub completed a 17-yard TD pass to WR Kevin Walter for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Browns answered with QB Derek Anderson completing a 19-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards. However, Houston woud retake the lead as kicker Kris Brown managed to get a 41-yard field goal. Fortunately, Cleveland regained the lead with Anderson completing a 7-yard TD pass to TE Kellen Winslow.

In the third quarter, the Browns added on to their lead as kicker Phil Dawson getting a 25-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Cleveland pulled away with Dawson nailing a 27-yard field goal, along with RB Jamal Lewis getting a 1-yard TD run. The Texans' only response would be Schaub's 6-yard TD pass to TE Owen Daniels.

With the win, the Browns improved to 7–4. This would also be the first time since 1994 that Cleveland had won five-straight home games.

For Braylon Edwards (4 receptions for 57 yards and 1 touchdown), who had 11 touchdown receptions on the year after this game, it would be the most by a Browns receiver since Gary Collins had 11 in 1963.

For Derek Anderson (24/35 for 253 yards with 2 touchdowns and 1 interception), his 22 touchdown passes (up to this point in the year) is the best by a Browns quarterback since Bernie Kosar had 22 in 1987.

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

AFC Players of the Month

For the month of November, Josh Cribbs was named the AFC Special Teams Player of the Month (for the second time in the season), due in large to his spectacular returns in the Pittsburgh game. Additionally, Joe Thomas was named the AFC Offensive Rookie of the Month for his continuing improvement anchoring Cleveland's offensive line, as evidenced by the increased production of Jamal Lewis and the rarity of Derek Anderson being sacked.

Week 13: at Arizona Cardinals

1 2 3 4 Total
Browns 3 7 8 3 21
Cardinals 14 0 7 6 27

at University of Phoenix Stadium, Glendale, Arizona

Coming off their home win over the Texans, the Browns flew to the University of Phoenix Stadium for a Week 13 interconference duel with the Arizona Cardinals. In the first quarter, Cleveland trailed early as Cardinals CB Roderick Hood returned an interception 71 yards for a touchdown, while QB Kurt Warner completed a 5-yard TD pass to TE Leonard Pope. The Browns would get on the board with kicker Phil Dawson getting a 37-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Cleveland started to rebound as QB Derek Anderson completed a 6-yard TD pass to RB Jamal Lewis for the only score of the period.

In the third quarter, Arizona responded with Warner completing a 1-yard TD pass to WR Bryant Johnson. The Browns would reply with Anderson completing a 67-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards (followed by Josh Cribbs' 2-point conversion pass to TE Kellen Winslow). In the fourth quarter, the Cardinals increased their lead with kicker Neil Rackers getting a 33-yard field goal. Afterwards, Dawson gave Cleveland a 22-yard field goal, yet Arizona answered with Rackers completing a 19-yard field goal. At the end of the game, the Browns had one final chance to win it all. Winslow caught a 37-yard would-be touchdown pass from Anderson in the corner of the endzone just beyond the goal line. After being hit by a defender in mid-air, Winslow's body rotated vertically, and only one of Winslow's feet was able to contact the ground in-bounds. Despite the NFL's "forceout rule" being in effect at the time, the play was ruled incomplete. The play was officially reviewed and upheld, as the forceout rule was not permitted to be invoked based on a review. The NFL eliminated the forceout rule following the 2007 NFL season.[79] After this game, Cleveland fell to 7–5.

Derek Anderson had thrown 24 TD passes at this point in the season (the most for a Browns quarterback since 1983).

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 14: at New York Jets

1 2 3 4 Total
Browns 0 7 7 10 24
Jets 0 3 3 12 18

at The Meadowlands, East Rutherford, New Jersey

Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Cardinals, the Browns flew to The Meadowlands for a Week 14 intraconference duel with the New York Jets. After a scoreless first quarter, Cleveland drew first blood in the second quarter as QB Derek Anderson completed a 7-yard TD pass to RB Jamal Lewis. The Jets would reply with kicker Mike Nugent getting a 35-yard field goal.

In the third quarter, the Browns continued their recent success with Anderson completing a 4-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards. New York would answer with Nugent kicking a 41-yard field goal. In the fourth quarter, Cleveland increased its lead with kicker Phil Dawson getting a 49-yard field goal. The Jets tried to come back as QB Kellen Clemens managed to get a 1-yard TD run, while Nugent kicked a 38-yard field goal. Afterwards, Cleveland pulled away as Lewis got a 31-yard TD run. New York would end the game with Nugent nailing a 35-yard field goal.

With the win, the Browns improved to 8–5.

After 14 weeks, Cleveland has scored 360 points, which is their most since 1987.

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 15: vs. Buffalo Bills

1 2 3 4 Total
Bills 0 0 0 0 0
Browns 3 5 0 0 8

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

Coming off their road win over the Jets, the Browns went home for a Week 15 intraconference game with the Buffalo Bills, trying to protect their #6 playoff spot.

In the first quarter, Cleveland scored as kicker Phil Dawson managed to get a 35-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Browns' lead increased as Bills LS Ryan Neill's snap to Punter Brian Moorman went over Moorman's head, causing him to kick the ball through Cleveland's endzone for a safety. Later, the Browns scored again as Dawson made a 49-yard field goal. Near the end of the game, Buffalo drove deep into Cleveland territory; however, Buffalo turned the ball over on downs, and Cleveland ran the clock out for the win.

With the win, the Browns improved to 9–5 and secured only their 2nd winning season since returning to the NFL in 1999 and also their first winning season since 2002. This would also be the very first game ending in a score of 8–0 since November 10, 1929, when the Chicago Cardinals won over the Minneapolis Red Jackets.

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 16: at Cincinnati Bengals

1 2 3 4 Total
Browns 0 0 7 7 14
Bengals 0 19 0 0 19

at Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio

Needing a win to secure their first playoff berth since 2002, the Browns flew to Paul Brown Stadium for Round 2 of the Battle of Ohio with the Cincinnati Bengals. After a scoreless first quarter, Cleveland trailed in the second quarter as Bengals kicker Shayne Graham nailed a 29-yard and a 38-yard field goal, along with QB Carson Palmer completing a 5-yard TD pass to WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh and RB Kenny Watson getting a 1-yard TD run.

In the third quarter, the Browns began to rally as QB Derek Anderson completed a 2-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Cleveland drew closer as Anderson and Edwards hooked up with each other again on a 5-yard TD pass. Late in the game, the Browns tried to take the lead, but Cincinnti's early lead was too much to overcome.

With the loss, Cleveland fell to 9–6.

Despite the loss, Braylon Edwards set the Browns' single-season record for the most touchdown receptions with 15. Also, with TE Kellen Winslow reaching 1,000 receiving yards for the first time in his career, Edwards & Winslow became the franchise's first receiving duo to get 1,000 yards in the same year.

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

Week 17: vs. San Francisco 49ers

1 2 3 4 Total
49ers 0 7 0 0 7
Browns 7 10 0 3 20

at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Cleveland, Ohio

Needing a Tennessee Titans loss (or a win and a Tennessee tie) to make the playoffs, the Browns closed out the regular season with a Week 17 interconference duel with the San Francisco 49ers. In the first quarter, Cleveland got the first punch with WR/PR/KR Josh Cribbs returning a punt 76 yards for a touchdown for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Browns increased their lead with QB Derek Anderson completing a 45-yard TD pass to WR Braylon Edwards. The 49ers would get on the board with QB Chris Weinke completing a 7-yard TD pass to WR Darrell Jackson. Cleveland would end the half with kicker Phil Dawson completing a 23-yard field goal. After a scoreless third quarter, the Browns ended the game in the fourth quarter with Dawson nailing a 49-yard field goal. With the win, Cleveland ended the regular season at 10–6, the franchise's first 10-win season since 1994.

However, despite winning over San Francisco, the Browns' season ended when the Titans won the Sunday night game over the Colts. This is because Tennessee had a better record against common opponents (4–1) than Cleveland (3–2).

The Browns were the season's only 9+ win team to not make the playoffs. Braylon Edwards ended the season as the Browns' all-time single-season leader in receiving yards with 1,289 yards, breaking Webster Slaughter's 1989 record of 1,236 yards. Also, rookie QB Brady Quinn made his NFL debut while Derek Anderson was nursing a mildly-injured thumb. He went 3 of 8 for 48 yards.

Scoring summary
Q Team Time Scoring play Score

2008 Pro Bowl

Six Browns players, Wide receiver Braylon Edwards, kick returner Josh Cribbs, left tackle Joe Thomas, longsnapper Ryan Pontbriand, tight end Kellen Winslow II, and quarterback Derek Anderson were named to the AFC team to represent the Cleveland Browns during the 2008 Pro Bowl.[81][82][83] Announced on December 18, 2007, this marked the first time since the 2001 NFL season that the Browns had had a Pro Bowl player, with the last being Jamir Miller representing the team at the 2002 Pro Bowl as a linebacker. It was the most selections for a Browns team since the 1995 season.

Edwards was one of the AFC's reserve wide receivers, while Cribbs started as the AFC's kick returner.[81] Thomas, Anderson, and Winslow were all voted first alternates but all played due to injuries or other players electing not to participate in the game. Pontbriand was elected as a "needs" player by the AFC coaching staff.

Guard Eric Steinbach (1st), fullback Lawrence Vickers (2nd), and placekicker Phil Dawson (3rd) were named alternates at their respective positions.[81]

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  53. ^ "Pittman becomes first draftee to sign". Archived from the original on 2007-10-08. http://web.archive.org/web/20071008054308/http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/article.php?id=6938. Retrieved 2007-07-23. 
  54. ^ "Day Two picks under contract". Archived from the original on 2007-10-10. http://web.archive.org/web/20071010065805/http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/article.php?id=6949. Retrieved 2007-07-23. 
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  56. ^ a b Jackson, Zac (2007-08-07). "Browns sign Quinn to 5-year deal". clevelandbrowns.com. Archived from the original on 2007-09-27. http://web.archive.org/web/20070927011424/http://www.clevelandbrowns.com/article.php?id=7052. Retrieved 2007-08-08. 
  57. ^ "Quinn, Browns agree on five year, $20M contract". espn.com. http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp07/news/story?id=2964653. Retrieved 2007-08-08. 
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  62. ^ a b Sports Illustrated, September 24, 2007, p. 24
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  79. ^ New NFL rules for 2008
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  82. ^ Pontbriand named to Pro Bowl roster
  83. ^ Anderson, Winslow headed to Pro Bowl
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