By PFW staff
Jan. 7, 2008

The Browns signed offensive coordinator Rob Chudzinski to a two-year contract extension on Monday, a move that keeps Chudzinski signed through 2011 and takes him out of play for the Ravens' head-coaching vacancy. In a statement, Chudzinski thanked the Ravens for their interest but said that staying in Cleveland was the "best decision for me both personally and professionally. In Chudzinski's first season in charge of the offense, the Browns finished eighth both in points and yards per game in 2007 after struggling to move the ball for years. Said general manager Phil Savage: “(Head coach) Romeo (Crennel) and I felt it was important to keep Rob in place as offensive coordinator to maintain our continuity on that side of the ball. He did a terrific job this year and we’re looking forward to what this group can accomplish next season.”

Chudzinski, one of the league's rising star assistants, had also drawn interest from the Dolphins for their head-coaching vacancy after helping to improve an offense that was 31st in yards and 30th in points in 2006. The Cleveland offense made its biggest strides in the passing game. QB Derek Anderson emerged as a starting-caliber quarterback. WR Braylon Edwards became a star. TE Kellen Winslow, the only reliable target in '06, continued to play at a high level. And the offensive line, a sieve in other years, markedly improved.

But all of that talent would have gone misused if it wasn't utilized in the right scheme. Clearly, Chudzinski's offense is a strong fit for the talent on hand. That the Browns so quickly extended his contract underscores how much they appreciate his work. It's also another sign that Browns owner Randy Lerner isn't afraid to pay for talent — playing or coaching or otherwise.

Chudzinski, Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz have withdrawn from the Ravens' search.