CLEVELAND, March 15 (UPI) -- Free agent linebacker Willie McGinest Wednesday signed a three-year, $12 million contract with the Cleveland Browns.
The 12-year veteran, a two-time Pro Bowler, had spent his entire career with New England until he was cut by the Patriots last Thursday in a cost-saving move. He was owed $7 million by the Patriots for next season.
"He adds a lot because he's been here the whole time the Browns have been back," said senior vice president and general manager Phil Savage. "We hopefully won't repeat the same mistakes that have been made in the past. Steve serves as a reminder of what some of those were. He's been a really valuable resource."
McGinest, 34, started all 18 games last season and had 56 tackles and six sacks. In his career, he has 666 tackles, four interceptions, and is third on the team's all-time sacks list with 78.
