The Facts: The Cleveland Browns have opened negotiations with Anderson by offering him a three-year contract, a source told The Dispatch yesterday. It is likely the first of many proposals as the sides attempt to reach an agreement before NFL free agency begins Feb. 29. The amount of the offer was not known.

Diehards Line:Anderson, who will be a restricted free agent, threw for 3,787 yards and 29 touchdowns in his first season as a starter. The Browns went 10-5 with him starting, and he became a Pro Bowl alternate. GM Phil Savage has said the Browns will use its highest one-year tender on Anderson if a long-term contract cannot be reached. In making an initial three-year offer, it appears they don't want to go that route. A high one-year tender would require other teams to give the Browns a first- and third-round draft pick to sign Anderson, and the Browns would have the right to match any offer.