The Browns are finally doing something they haven't been able to do for years - sign impact players in free agency. The Browns perhaps made the biggest impact during day one of free agency when they signed Pro Bowl center LeCharles Bentley, wide receiver Joe Jurevicius, and left tackle Kevin Shaffer.

Bentley and Jurevicius are both natives of Cleveland, which probably played into their decisions to join the Browns. However, it's not like the Browns signed them for cheap.

The Browns signed Bentley to a reported six-year deal worth $36 million that would include $12.5 million in guaranteed money. That would make him the highest paid center in NFL history.

"I can die happy now," said Bentley. "This has been my dream."

Bentley has played for the New Orleans Saints the past four seasons and has done an outstanding job. He will be re-united with former Saints fullback Terelle Smith. He is excited about having the chance to be a part of the Browns-Steelers rivalry.

"That's football," he said. "That's what it's all about. I want to be in those games. I can't wait to come out of the tunnel at Cleveland Stadium. I'm excited, and I cant wait to be part of that tradition and leave my own legacy."

The Browns will probably release or trade center Jeff Faine, who was a first-round pick a few years ago. He has been injury prone throughout his career.

Jurevicius, who played for the Seattle Seahawks this past season, is reportedly going to make $10 million over four years. Jurevicius will likely start alongside the young Braylon Edwards and will add veteran stability to the Browns.

"This is where it all started for me," said Jurevicius. "I had opportunities to go to a couple different places. First and foremost, I wanted to become a Cleveland Brown, put on the orange helmet, play in front of Lake Erie and enjoy the feelings. This is going to add years to my career because of excitement that comes along with it."

Shaffer, who has played for the Atlanta Falcons the past few years, will replace L.J. Shelton as the Browns starting left tackle. Shaffer was a seventh-round pick for Atlanta in the 2002 draft, but has developed into a quality NFL starter.