Browns dismiss coach Shurmur, GM Heckert

Berea, OH – The Cleveland Browns have relieved both head coach Pat Shurmur and general manager Tom Heckert of their duties.

Shurmur became the 13th full-time head coach in Browns franchise history in 2011 and led the team to a 4-12 record.

He didn't fare much better in his second campaign with the club, guiding the Browns to a 5-11 mark this season.

Cleveland finished the season with three straight losses and was in the cellar of the AFC North for the fourth time in the last five years.

"We felt that these moves were in the best interests of the Cleveland Browns and our future," said Browns owner Jimmy Haslam. "I enjoyed getting to know Tom and Pat over the past several months, and want to thank them, not just for their contributions to the Browns, but also the insight they were able to provide. They are both fine men and hope they have the best of success as they move forward with their careers."

Heckert took over as the Browns GM in 2010 and tabbed Shurmur as the replacement for Eric Mangini after Cleveland's second consecutive 5-11 season.

The Browns compiled a 14-34 record under Heckert's watch.

"This decision was not an easy one because of my relationship with Tom and Pat and the fact that they are both quality people," said Browns CEO Joe Banner. "Ultimately our objective is to put together an organization that will be the best at everything we do."