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The NFL Network is reporting the Cleveland Browns have struck a 7-year deal worth $49.5 million with top free agent offensive lineman Eric Steinbach (Bengals).

Once again, the Browns have apparently signed the best o-lineman free agency has to offer. Last year, Cleveland inked C LeCharles Bentley (Saints), and LT Kevin Shaffer (Falcons) to multiyear contracts. Bentley never made it past the first practice, suffering a career-threatening knee injury, while Shaffer often acted as a revolving door for defensive linemen on their way to the quarterback. Either way, at least Cleveland is spending the money to build their line, a group often spurned in free agency by other teams. Plus, Steinbach is regarded as a highly versatile player who can line up in the interior or at tackle.

With free agency kicking off in full swing today, teams are on the lookout for this season’s Jeff Garcia, the undervalued veteran who will provide plenty of bang for the buck.

Check out Bullz-Eye.com for a look at the potential bargains and busts of this year’s NFL free agent class.

The Pittsburgh Steelers decided to part ways with linebacker Joey Porter on Thursday. This news is surprising considering Porter has been a mainstay in the Steelers’ 3-4 scheme for the better part of a decade, and helped them win a Super Bowl just two years ago. It should be noted, however, that Porter didn’t particularly play well last year, and was hampered by injuries. Plus he’s not the best fit for the 4-3 defense, which is the front new head coach Mike Tomlin is expected to run. Porter also complained publicly about his contract situation last year, so the news of his release isn’t a total shocker.

Other notable cuts from Friday: Joe Horn (Saints), Keenan McCardell (Chargers), Drew Bledsoe (Cowboys), Fred Smoot (Vikings) and Kenyatta Walker (Bucs).