The Cleveland Browns were heavily favored to use their franchise tag on ILB D'Qwell Jackson so they could keep him from taking his services elsewhere. It's not going to be necessary any more, thankfully for Cleveland. Browns Insider Jeff Schudel reported on Monday that Jackson has re-signed with the Browns for a whopping five years, a great deal if he can keep his production at the same level that it was at for 2011.
Jackson had 158 tackles from the middle linebacker position in 2011, adding 3.5 sacks, a forced fumble and an interception. On a Browns team that doesn't have all that many solid defenders, re-signing Jackson was clearly a top priority and Cleveland fans will be thankful that he's back on the team.
Contract details via Adam Schefter on twitter:
Browns signed LB D'Qwell Jackson on a five-year, $42.5 million deal that includes $19 millin in guaranteed money and roster bonuses.
This clears up kicker Phil Dawson to be franchised, as said in Schudel's tweet above.
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