Does Kellen Winslow Deserve a New Contract?

According to him, he does. In an interview with Sirius NFL Radio, Winslow said:

"“I’ve proven these past two years that I’m one of the elite tight ends.”"

When asked if he was going to seek out a new deal, he said he would and seemed hopeful that it would happen. But GM Phil Savage responded with the signing of both quarterback Derek Anderson and running back Jamal Lewis remaining as the top priorities. That’s not to say the Browns will not seek out a new deal for Winslow; it’s just that there are currently more pressing matters at hand.

Of course, this begs the question: does Kellen Winslow even need a new deal? Currently, he is signed through 2010 and will make $4 million in 2008, $4.5 million in 2009, and $4.75 million in 2010. He’s not wrong about being one of the elite tight ends in the league, and I would agree that he has certainly worked his way into deserving a new contract. It would be ideal for the Browns to get Anderson and Lewis out of the way so they can focus on Winslow. The last thing I’d want to see is a media circus surrounding Winslow’s constant pining for a new deal. And if you think I’m crazy about the potential of that scenario, guess who his new agent is: Drew Rosenhaus, Terrell Owens’ agent.

Long story short, I’ll go along with Kellen on this one. He’s one of the hardest working players on the field and gives 110% literally every down (not to mention he’s now a Pro Bowler, which undoubtedly works in his favor).

Also, in case you don’t remember, he is a soldier, so he should be making soldier money, no?