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Unlike with Antonio Smith, there was never any doubt that Ben Tate would find somewhere else other than Houston to play football in 2014. The former Auburn running back was stuck behind Arian Foster after breaking his leg during a preseason game in his rookie year. He shined in 2011, giving the Texans the best running back tandem in the league, but often found himself in Gary Kubiak's doghouse or on the team's injury list after that.
Browns nabbed their RB, agreed to terms with former Texans RB Ben Tate on a two-year deal, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2014
He ran hard in 2013 despite some banged up ribs-- almost as if he knew he was auditioning for a new contract!
And a new contract he got. The Cleveland Browns have secured his services for two years, though we don't yet know the money involved [UPDATE BELOW]. The Browns have coveted Tate for several years now...probably since Tate shredded them for 115 yards and a touchdown on just 12 carries back in November of 2011.
LET'S DO THIS CLEVELAND!! #DawgPound pic.twitter.com/jMKDIV1OmA
— Ben Tate (@BenTateRB) March 15, 2014
Clearly, he's excited, and despite a sometimes rocky relationship with fans, I'm sure most are excited for him. Go get you some, Tate. Trent Richardson, Chris Ogbonnaya and Willis McGahee should be pretty easy acts to follow.
UPDATE: Adam Schefter has the financial details on Tate's new deal:
The Browns are giving former Texans RB Ben Tate a two-year deal worth up to $7 million, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2014