Browns Place DB Gary Baxter on Injured Reserve

Cleveland, OH - The Cleveland Browns have placed DB Gary Baxter on Injured-Reserve, the club announced today.  Baxter, 6-2 and 210 lbs., earlier this season returned to the active roster following a patella tendon injury to both knees suffered against the Denver Broncos on Oct. 22, 2006.  Baxter began practicing with the club during training camp, however was inactive for the first six regular season games in 2007.

"Gary (Baxter) has put everything he's got into this comeback," said Browns Senior Vice President and General Manager, Phil Savage. "He made great strides over the summer, but just hasn't been able to reach the 100 percent level needed to play in the NFL. We feel he is headed in the right direction and hopeful he will return by next season."

"I have been working hard for the past year to recover from my injuries, but unfortunately at this time I'm not at a level where I can be a full-time contributor to my team," said Baxter. "Because of that, I don't want to continue to take up a roster spot that can be filled by someone who can help the team win right now."

"I've made significant progress, much more than anyone thought I ever would. Still, I'm extremely disappointed I didn't make it on the field this year and I plan to use this as motivation to get back on the field next year. I'm getting closer to that goal each week," added Baxter.