CLEVELAND – The Browns have signed free agent running back Ben Tate, filling the void for an every-down back created when they traded Trent Richardson.
Tate rushed for 771 yards last season, his fourth with Houston. He played part of the year with broken ribs, an injury that would have sidelined most players. The 25-year-old spent several days visiting the Browns, whose running game suffered after Richardson was dealt to Indianapolis early last season.
Tate was rumored to be on his way to Cleveland shortly after Richardson's departure, but the Browns waited for free agency to get him.
He has averaged 4.7 yards per attempt during his career. After sitting out his rookie season in 2010 with a broken ankle, Tate rushed for 942 yards and four touchdowns the next season and averaged 5.4 yards per carry.
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