CLEVELAND (June 4, 2005) -- Former Arizona offensive tackle L.J. Shelton agreed to terms on a one-year contract with the Cleveland Browns, giving the club insurance in case Ross Verba holds out for a bigger contract.
Shelton, a former first-round draft pick, was released last month by the Cardinals. The 6-foot-6, 325-pounder started 77 of 82 games over the past six seasons, mainly at left tackle for Arizona.
Last week, Verba told the Browns he wanted more money and sat out the club's voluntary passing camp in protest.
Shelton played 12 games at right tackle in 2004, making nine starts before sustaining a season-ending injury to his left knee. In 2003, he signed a five-year contract extension. However, he fell out of favor last season with coach Dennis Green and the Cardinals unsuccessfully tried to trade him before April's draft before releasing him.
