FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 2, 2014
Browns exercise fifth-year option on Phil Taylor
BEREA, Ohio -- The Cleveland Browns on Friday exercised the fifth-year option on defensive lineman Phil Taylor's rookie contract. General Manager Ray Farmer made the announcement.
Taylor is now under contract through the 2015 season.
"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," said Head Coach Mike Pettine. "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."
"I am humbled and honored that the Browns exercised the fifth-year option on my contract," said Taylor. "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, the 21st overall selection in the 2011 NFL Draft, has appeared in 39 games with 38 starts. A powerful force in the middle of the defensive line, Taylor has registered 130 tackles, seven sacks, two passes defensed, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.
In 2013, Taylor played and started 15 games at nose tackle in the Browns' 3-4 defense after transitioning from defensive tackle. He recorded 57 tackles, two sacks and one pass defensed, helping Cleveland finish ninth in the NFL in total defense, the team's best finish since 1994.
