Browns sign Earl Bennett per multiple reports

Dec 15, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Earl Bennett (80) makes a touchdown reception against Cleveland Browns cornerback Buster Skrine (22) during the fourth quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. The Bears won 38-31. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports

According to multiple media outlets, the Cleveland Browns have agreed to sign veteran wide receiver Earl Bennett.  Bennett Bennett spent his first five seasons with the Chicago Bears after being a third round pick in 2008, being reunited with former college teammate Jay Cutler.  For the Browns, he is one of what appear to be a number of options they are bringing in to compete for what is likely to be Josh Gordon’s spot, since all indications are he will be suspended for violating the NFL’s drug policy; the question is how long Gordon will be out.

Bennett’s best year in the NFL was actually his rookie year.  That was the only season he has played all 16 games and he caught 54 passes for 717 yards and 2 touchdowns.  After a promising rookie year, the following four have been a descent into mediocrity and this past year, he caught 32 passes for 243 yards and 4 touchdowns in 15 games.  The Bears released him as their third wide receiver after this past season.

The 6′ 206lb Bennett is still just 27 years old and the hope is that he can come in and at least improve the overall position group.  He is not going to replace Gordon, but no one else is either in the short term.