Report: Roth wants a trade

Apparently, Matt Roth loves controversy. Less than a year after forcing his way out of Miami, the Cleveland Browns linebacker wants a trade.


Via Adam Schefter comes word that Roth is unhappy with current contract talks, and the situation won't be easily resolved.


Roth is a restricted free agent, and he believes that he should receive a big contract, something Cleveland is by all appearances unwilling to give him. In this case, the Browns are right to stand pat here. Roth recorded just four sacks last season, which isn't anything special. Why should the Browns shell out the big bucks for him when they could simply wait and see how he plays next season, and then make a decision?


The problem for Roth is that Cleveland has all the leverage here. If Roth refuses to sign his tender, which Schefter reports is likely to happen, the Browns can reduce the offer -- forcing him to play for less money in 2010.


Another question: Who gave Roth this sense of entitlement? Roth has registered a total of 16-and-a-half sacks in his career. After he forced his way out of Miami, he joined the Browns in Week 12. The Browns would be absolutely crazy to hand him a new contract after seeing him play just six games. And by continually creating problems for the teams he plays for, he's beginning to look less appealing to other franchises.


A word of advice for Roth. Shut up, sign the tender, and play at a higher level. Then the Browns will give you the money you are looking for.