Isaiah Crowell Contract: Latest News, Rumors on Negotiations with Browns

Cleveland Browns running back Isaiah Crowell had a career year in 2016, and he's seeking a new contract before hitting restricted free agency in March.  

Continue for updates. 

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Browns, Crowell Meeting Next Week

Friday, Jan. 20

According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Browns had "heavy talks" with Crowell during the season before reaching a stalemate, but the two sides have a meeting scheduled for next week.

Despite having a revolving door at quarterback and playing for a team that was constantly behind in games, Crowell had a breakout 2016. 

He finished with 952 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 198 attempts while posting 319 receiving yards on 40 receptions. His 1,271 yards from scrimmage and seven touchdowns led all Browns players. 

Crowell was an all-or-nothing player in 2016, as Pro Football Focus noted 47.5 percent of his rushing yards came on 16 attempts. He will have to focus on consistency moving forward, but the Browns aren't so loaded with playmakers right now that they can afford to be picky. 

An undrafted free agent out of Alabama State in 2014, Crowell turned out to be a huge bargain for the Browns. He made a total of $1.54 million over his first three seasons, per Spotrac. 

The Browns own two of the top 12 picks in April's draft in a good year for running backs, with Leonard Fournette and Dalvin Cook headlining the list, so they could address the position if they want to let Crowell test restricted free agency. 

Given the state of Cleveland's roster at this point, though, it doesn't make sense for the franchise to play fast and loose with one of its best players.