The Cleveland Browns exercised their fifth-year option on defensive lineman Phil Taylor’s rookie contract Friday.
Taylor is now under contract through the 2015 season.
“I am humbled and honored that the Browns exercised the fifth-year option on my contract,” Taylor said in a statement. “I truly hope to be in Cleveland my entire career and to be part of the team that turns this franchise back into a perennial winner and championship contender, and restores the luster of the Dawg Pound!”
Taylor played and started 15 games at nose tackle in the Browns’ 3-4 defense after transitioning from defensive tackle. He had 57 tackles, two sacks and one pass breakup, helping Cleveland finish ninth in the NFL in total defense, the team’s best finish since 1994.
“It’s very evident to us watching on tape and seeing him in person this week that Phil Taylor is very explosive and he’s a great fit for what we want to do on defense,” coach Mike Pettine said in a statement. “I like his ability to rush the passer and be there to clog up the middle at the point of attack when we need him.”
Taylor, the No. 21 overall pick in the 2011 draft, has appeared in 39 games with 38 starts in three seasons. He has 130 tackles, seven sacks, two pass breakups, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery.