Cleveland Browns RB Jamal Lewis may retire at the end of the season

The Cleveland Browns lost yet another game Sunday, dropping their dismal record to 1-7. The fans are continually displeased; the team has been in the cellar for the past few seasons and apparently their latest loss has pushed starting RB Jamal Lewis over the edge. According to the NBC sports web site, Lewis has become so frustrated with the Browns' situation, he announced that he plans to retire at the end of the season. In six games this season, Lewis has gained 349 yards on 98 carries and has yet to record a touchdown. RB Jerome Harrison is Cleveland's back-up running back and would assume the starting duties if Lewis is unable or unwilling to play.

Fantasy Analysis:
It has been said that Lewis can become very emotional after losing football games, but it is not a forgone conclusion that Lewis will retire (see Derrick Mason). Conversely, if you take into account that he is 30-years old and on the decline in his career, this could very well be his last season as a "feature" running back. The Browns have a plethora of issues to address at the end of the season and one issue that will be toward the top of the list is replacing Lewis if he does indeed retire. Cleveland will probably finish the season right next to Detroit and St. Louis, meaning they will more than likely have a top 3 draft pick next year. Jahvid Best from the University of California or Clemson's CJ Spiller could be available at the end of the first round or early second round of the 2010 draft; look for the Browns to do what they need to do to fill their possible void with one of the two up-and-coming running backs of the 2010 draft class.

Source:
NBC Sports

Players Involved:
RB Lewis, Jamal, CLE
RB Harrison, Jerome, CLE

Team Involved:
CLE  

More NFL News & Rumors: