Browns Match Jaguars’ Offer to C Alex Mack
Published at(NEW YORK) — Center Alex Mack is officially staying in Cleveland.
The Browns have matched the five-year offer sheet that Mack signed earlier Friday with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Cleveland had five days to match the offer but did so in just a few hours.
“I’m excited for both Alex and the Browns,” Cleveland General Manager Ray Farmer said in a statement from the team. “We have talked about keeping our own players and this is a positive for us. Alex is a quality person and player that truly brings to life what playing like a Brown means the ending is positive for everyone. Keeping our young, good nucleus of players is vital for clubs and specifically the Browns and therefore is this a good step. I’m excited for Alex and our football team as we continue to prepare for the 2014 season.”
Mack received the Browns’ transition tag this offseason, giving the team a chance to match any offer the Pro Bowl center received in free agency.
According to sources, the five-year deal is for $42 million with $26 million guaranteed. It also includes a no-trade provision.
The 28-year-old Mack was drafted by the Browns in the first round of the 2009 NFL draft. He has never missed a snap over the course of his pro career.
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