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Browns’ new head coach Eric Mangini has declared an open competition at quarterback between Brady Quinn and Derek Anderson.

“I talked to both of them about that and was very clear,” Mangini said. “I said if they have any questions they can come and see me. In terms of the competition and their opportunities. That’s what I told them. They understand that.”

Mangini said after reviewing tapes of both players, holding conversations with them and talking to others, he is “excited” about the prospect of having both compete for the job.

“Without knowing exactly what they were being asked to do on each of the plays, I thought both seemed to have a good presence, a good command of the situation. They each do different things in the passing game and running game that I like,” he said.

Mangini said he will determine later how to divide QB repetitions in offseason practices, the minicamps and then in training camp. He said with the Jets he alternated QBs by the practice period, by the day, even by the interception. He said there is merit in mixing up the opportunities.

The coach said there is no timetable in determining his starter.

As usual, Mangini didn’t rule out trading a quarterback before the competition actually plays out on the field.

“What I haven’t ruled out is George (Kokinis, GM) and I looking at any opportunity to improve the team,” he said. “But I in no way am saying that is specific to the quarterback situation. But we would look at any opportunity we thought would improve the team.”

This isn’t a bad idea by Mangini because if neither is traded this offseason, it’s always good to drum up some competition for training camp, no matter what position it is. Anderson was a stud two years ago and Quinn showed flashes of potential before getting hurt last season. So make one of them earn a starting gig this season. (Assuming one of them doesn’t get traded, that is.)