The Cleveland Browns have tendered a contract offer to quarterback Derek Anderson, making him a restricted free agent.

Anderson has been tendered a figure of $2.56 million by the Browns, who have also offered a new three-year deal worth a reported $20m

If the 24-year-old does not sign a contract prior to Friday’s midnight deadline, Cleveland can match any offers made by other teams or receive first and third-round draft selections as compensation.

Anderson, who threw for 3,787 yards and 29 touchdowns while leading the Browns to a 10-6 record last season, has already turned down a three-year, $16m offer.

If he does not reach a long-term deal with the Browns or sign elsewhere, he will play the 2008 season with Cleveland under the one-year tender offer.

“If he’s willing to take the walk out (into free agency), there’s got to be some indication there’s something at the end of the rainbow,” said Browns general manager Savage.

“We have a pretty good strong package out there with the opportunity to play with a good group of players and a good coach.

“My natural assumption is if he were to walk away from what we have out there, there must be some sort of indication there’s something out there for him.”

Kearse cut

Meanwhile, former defensive rookie of the year Jevon Kearse has been released by the Philadelphia Eagles.

Kearse has been restricted by various injuries to just 16 appearances over the last two years.

The 31-year-old defensive lineman played in three Pro Bowls during his time with the Tennessee Titans before signing an eight-year contract with the Eagles in March 2004, reportedly worth $66 million.

Ref: www.skysports.com