Details of Ellsworth's deal were not immediately available, but it is believed to be for at least four years.

In acquiring Ellsworth, an unrestricted free agent who played the first four seasons of his career with the New York Giants, the Browns actually addressed two positions, since his arrival enables Corey Fuller to move back to his more natural position of cornerback.

Despite only one season as a full-time starter, Ellsworth was among the top safeties available in the unrestricted free agent market, thanks in large part to his 1999 performance. He started 14 games and had 74 tackles, six interceptions and 12 passes defensed, all career bests. Ellsworth combines terrific size (6-feet-2, 220 pounds) with good range and nice coverage instincts.

The former Virginia standout was signed by the Giants in 1996 as an undrafted free agent. For his career, he has 60 regular-season appearances, including 28 starts. He has 18 interceptions, 40 passes defensed and 204 tackles.

Primarily a "nickel" defender early in his career, Ellsworth's interception numbers have increased by one every season in the league, beginning with three pickoffs in his rookie year.

The Browns also are expected to sign unrestricted free-agent tailback Errict Rhett on Friday. Rhett, a six-year veteran, led the Baltimore Ravens with 852 yards rushing in 1999.