10 Best Browns Players of 2000s

#10: Ryan Pontbriand (2003 – 2011)

Position: Long Snapper
Height/Weight: 6’2″, 255 lbs
College: Rice University

Ryan Pontbriand was one of the most reliable and consistent long snappers in the NFL during the 2000s, playing his entire career with the Cleveland Browns.  Drafted in the 5th round of the 2003 NFL Draft, Pontbriand became a cornerstone of the Browns’ special teams, excelling in his role.

His precision and consistency earned him Pro Bowl selections in 2007 and 2008, making him one of the few long snappers in NFL history to receive such honors. Pontbriand’s contributions were critical to the success of kicker Phil Dawson, and he was widely regarded as one of the best at his position throughout the league during his prime.

#9: Andra Davis (2002 – 2008)

Position: Linebacker
Height/Weight: 6’1″, 250 lbs
College: University of Florida

Andra Davis was a leader of the Browns’ defense throughout much of the 2000s, known for his tackling ability, leadership, and football intelligence. Drafted in the 5th round of the 2002 NFL Draft, Davis quickly became one of the team’s most dependable defensive players. 

He led the team in tackles multiple times, recording 199 total tackles in the 2005 season alone, and served as a captain during his tenure. Though the Browns had their ups and downs during his time, Davis was a consistent presence in the middle of the defense, finishing his career in Cleveland with over 500 tackles.

#8: Derek Anderson (2006 – 2010)

Position: Quarterback
Height/Weight: 6’6″, 235 lbs
College: Oregon State University

Derek Anderson’s 2007 season remains one of the brightest spots for the Browns during the 2000s. After taking over the starting quarterback job, Anderson led the team to a surprising 10-6 record, just missing the playoffs. 

He threw for 3,787 yards and 29 touchdowns that season, earning a Pro Bowl selection. Anderson’s deep passing and connection with wide receivers like Braylon Edwards brought hope to the franchise, and his performance in 2007 stands out as one of the best by a Browns quarterback in recent memory. 

Though his time in Cleveland had its ups and downs, Anderson’s breakout year left a lasting impression.

#7: Kellen Winslow II (2004 – 2008)

Position: Tight End
Height/Weight: 6’4″, 240 lbs
College: University of Miami

Kellen Winslow II, drafted 6th overall in 2004, was one of the most talented tight ends in the NFL during his time with the Browns. 

Known for his athleticism and playmaking ability, Winslow was a matchup nightmare for defenses, using his size and speed to dominate the middle of the field. His best season came in 2007 when he recorded 82 receptions for 1,106 yards and 5 touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl selection. 

Despite dealing with injuries early in his career, Winslow became one of the key offensive weapons for Cleveland, providing a spark in the passing game. He remains one of the most talented tight ends to ever wear a Browns uniform.

#6: D’Qwell Jackson (2006 – 2013)

Position: Linebacker
Height/Weight: 6’0″, 242 lbs
College: University of Maryland

D’Qwell Jackson was a tackling machine for the Browns and one of the team’s most consistent defenders throughout the late 2000s and early 2010s. Drafted in the 2nd round of the 2006 NFL Draft, Jackson quickly became a leader on defense, leading the team in tackles in multiple seasons. 

His best year came in 2011, when he recorded 158 tackles and earned the NFL Comeback Player of the Year award after missing the previous two seasons due to injury. Jackson’s ability to read plays, make tackles in the open field, and provide leadership made him one of the most important players for the Browns during his time with the team.

#5: Jamal Lewis (2007 – 2009)

Position: Running Back
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 245 lbs
College: University of Tennessee

After spending most of his career with the Baltimore Ravens, Jamal Lewis brought his powerful running style to the Cleveland Browns in 2007. Lewis made an immediate impact, rushing for 1,304 yards and 9 touchdowns in his first season with the team, leading the Browns to a 10-6 record—their best season in the 2000s.

Known for his bruising, between-the-tackles running style, Lewis was a key offensive weapon, helping to balance the Browns’ attack with his ability to break tackles and control the game. Though his best years came before his time with the Browns, Lewis still provided a vital spark to the team during his tenure in Cleveland, giving the franchise a true workhorse in the backfield.

#4: Braylon Edwards (2005 – 2009)

Position: Wide Receiver
Height/Weight: 6’3″, 214 lbs
College: University of Michigan

Braylon Edwards, the 3rd overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft, was one of the most dynamic playmakers the Browns had during the 2000s. Known for his size, athleticism, and ability to make spectacular catches, Edwards’ best season came in 2007, when he had a career-high 1,289 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl selection. 

His chemistry with quarterback Derek Anderson that season helped propel the Browns to a 10-6 record. Although Edwards’ tenure in Cleveland had its ups and downs, including struggles with consistency and drops, his raw talent was undeniable. 

He finished his Browns career with over 3,500 receiving yards and 28 touchdowns, and his 2007 season remains one of the best by a Browns wide receiver in recent memory.

#3: Phil Dawson (1999 – 2012)

Position: Kicker
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 200 lbs
College: University of Texas

Phil Dawson was the model of consistency for the Cleveland Browns for over a decade, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable kickers in NFL history. A member of the Browns since their return to the league in 1999, Dawson was the team’s all-time leading scorer by the time he left Cleveland in 2012. 

Known for his clutch kicking and ability to perform in difficult weather conditions at Cleveland Browns Stadium, Dawson was often the Browns’ most dependable offensive weapon during lean years. His accuracy, leadership, and professionalism earned him two Pro Bowl selections (2012, 2013) and widespread respect around the league. 

Dawson’s legacy with the Browns is cemented as one of the greatest kickers in franchise history, and his name is synonymous with loyalty and longevity.

Notable Accomplishments:

• Cleveland Browns all-time leading scorer
• 2x Pro Bowl selection
• Known for clutch kicking in difficult conditions

#2: Josh Cribbs (2005 – 2012)

Position: Wide Receiver / Return Specialist
Height/Weight: 6’1″, 215 lbs
College: Kent State University

Josh Cribbs is widely regarded as one of the best return specialists in NFL history, and his electrifying kick and punt returns made him a fan favorite in Cleveland. 

An undrafted free agent out of Kent State, Cribbs quickly established himself as a game-changer on special teams, with his ability to flip the field and score touchdowns from anywhere on the field. Cribbs holds numerous NFL records, including the most career kickoff return touchdowns (8, tied with others). 

He was a three-time Pro Bowl selection and twice named First-Team All-Pro. In addition to his return duties, Cribbs also contributed as a wide receiver and occasional wildcat quarterback, displaying his versatility. His ability to single-handedly impact games, combined with his toughness and commitment to the Browns, has left a lasting legacy in Cleveland.

Notable Accomplishments:

• 3x Pro Bowl selection
• 2x First-Team All-Pro
• NFL record for most career kickoff return touchdowns (8, tied)
• Over 11,000 career return yards

#1: Joe Thomas (2007 – 2017)

Position: Left Tackle
Height/Weight: 6’6″, 312 lbs
College: University of Wisconsin

Joe Thomas is not only one of the greatest Cleveland Browns players of the 2000s, but also one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history. Drafted 3rd overall in 2007, Thomas immediately solidified the Browns’ offensive line, starting every game at left tackle from his rookie season until his retirement in 2017. 

Thomas played an incredible 10,363 consecutive snaps, the longest such streak in NFL history, and earned 10 consecutive Pro Bowl selections and 6 First-Team All-Pro honors. Known for his impeccable technique, durability, and leadership, Thomas was a cornerstone of the Browns’ offensive line through numerous coaching and quarterback changes. 

Despite the team’s struggles during his tenure, Thomas remained a loyal and consistent leader for the Browns. His longevity, skill, and professionalism have earned him a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, where he will forever be remembered as a Browns legend.

Notable Accomplishments:

• 10x Pro Bowl selection
• 6x First-Team All-Pro
• NFL record for most consecutive snaps played (10,363)
• Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee (Class of 2023)