CLEVELAND (AP) — Cleveland Browns starting running back Isaiah Crowell signed the second-round restricted free agent tender the franchise placed on him.
The team announced the move on Thursday night along with signings of three draft picks: cornerback Howard Wilson (fourth round), left tackle Rod Johnson (fifth round) and running back Matthew Dayes (seventh round).
Crowell, who rushed for 952 yards last season, will make $2.7 million next season and is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent in 2018. Cleveland can sign him to a contract extension at any time before then.
The Browns view Crowell, who did not attend the team’s voluntary workout program that began last month, as a core player going forward.
He was signed as an undrafted free agent in 2014. Crowell averaged 4.8 yards per carry last season and caught 40 passes for 319 yards.