Browns sign Paul Kruger to five-year, $41 million dealBEREA, OH (WOIO) -
The Browns have made their first free agent signing just 40 minutes into the NFL's signing period.
The team signed former Baltimore Ravens linebacker Paul Kruger to a five-year, $41 million deal on Tuesday. A reported $20 million of the contract is guaranteed.
Kruger, who recorded 13.5 sacks last season, will anchor the Browns new defensive 3-4 scheme under coordinator Ray Horton. He has 15.5 sacks during his four-year career. He also had 38 quarterback hurries, 15 more than anyone on the Ravens in 2012.
"We are very excited about the addition of Paul Kruger to our team," said Browns Head Coach Rob Chudzinski. "He is a talented linebacker who is going to make an immediate impact on our defense. When you put on the film you see physicality, explosive pass rush and a high motor. He has been very productive for the Ravens, and proved it at the highest level last season in the playoffs."
"Paul is the type of player we were looking to bring on at the outset of free agency, and we are thrilled that we were able to sign him," said Browns CEO Joe Banner. "Not only do we feel strongly about his ability as a football player, but he will add a great deal from a leadership standpoint as well. He has exhibited marked improvement each year of his career and we believe he can help the Cleveland Browns for many years to come."
Kruger was a second round pick by the Ravens in 2009.
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