Browns pick up fifth-year option for Phil Taylor

Browns defensive lineman Phil Taylor has proved his worth the past three years.

Therefore, the organization wants to keep him on as long as possible. The Browns announced that they've picked up the fifth-year option for Taylor. It will be worth $5.5 million in 2015.

“I am humbled and honored that the Browns exercised the fifth-year option on my contract,” Taylor said in a statement. “I truly hope to be in Cleveland my entire career and to be part of the team that turns this franchise back into a perennial winner and championship contender, and restores the luster of the Dawg Pound!”

Taylor was taken with the 21st overall pick in the 2011 draft. He's since started 38 of the 39 games he's appeared in and has totaled 130 tackles and seven sacks. By picking up his fifth-year option, the Browns will have more time to negotiate a long-term deal with Taylor.

“It’s very evident to us watching on tape and seeing him in person this week that Phil Taylor is very explosive and he’s a great fit for what we want to do on defense,” Browns coach Mike Pettine said. “I like his ability to rush the passer and be there to clog up the middle at the point of attack when we need him.”

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