Browns release QB Derek Anderson

CLEVELAND - Quarterback Derek Anderson's uneven five-year stint with the Cleveland Browns is over.

The team released the one-time Pro Bowl quarterback Tuesday, one day after the Browns acquired backup Seneca Wallace in a trade from Seattle.

Anderson made the Pro Bowl in 2007 when he threw 29 touchdown passes and led the club to a 10-6 record. However, his promising career has been in a tailspin ever since. He lost his starting job to Brady Quinn last season, got it back when Quinn was injured but then played poorly.

The 26-year-old Anderson spent five seasons with Cleveland, which claimed him off waivers from Baltimore in 2005. Anderson was due a $2 million roster bonus March 19 and his salary was set for $7.45 million in 2010.

"I want to thank Derek for everything that he gave to the Cleveland Browns organization over the last five years," coach Eric Mangini said in a statement. "He did everything we asked of him and it was a pleasure to coach such a competitive person. I want to wish him all the best in the future."

Anderson passed for 3,787 yards in 2007, tossing 17 of his 29 TD passes to wide receiver Braylon Edwards, whom Cleveland last season traded to the New York Jets. Blessed with one of the NFL's strongest arms, Anderson was never able to duplicate the success he attained in '07.

It's still unclear what direction the Browns will go at quarterback. Quinn hasn't lived up to expectations and Wallace, who worked with Cleveland president Mike Holmgren with the Seahawks, may not be ready to start. Holmgren said last week that the team was actively looking for a quarterback but did not specify if that meant in free agency or via trade.

The Browns also have 11 picks in April's draft.

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