Details of the agreement were not available, but the mammoth Rehberg (6-feet-8, 330 pounds) is expected to sign for the league minimum.

As a three-year veteran, Rehberg, 26, should have been a restricted free agent. But the Browns did not make him a qualifying offer to retain a right of first refusal so, in essence, he became an unfettered veteran. Cincinnati coaches obviously like his size and his toughness and feel he can be a top backup at several line positions.

He began the season as the Browns' starting right guard and then moved to left tackle when Lomas Brown was injured.

Most observers were surprised when the Browns opted not to retain his rights.

Rehberg began his NFL career as a seventh-round pick of the New England Patriots in the 1997 draft. He played in just eight games in two seasons with the Patriots, then was selected by the Browns in the expansion draft.