Browns’ Alex Mack Becomes Free Agent After Voiding Contract

A source with knowledge of the decision said on Wednesday that Cleveland Browns three-time Pro Bowl Center Alex Mack is voiding the final three years of his contract ahead of the opt-out deadline this Friday and will become an unrestricted free agent on March 9.

Browns’ Alex Mack Becomes Free Agent After Voiding Contract

Mack, 30, was on route to make $24 million over the next three years, but chose not to take this deal, according to published reports Wednesday on the condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the talks.

There is still a possibility that Mack may re-sign with the Browns, who value him as one of their best players and a model for the future.

Mack’s agent, Tim Younger, said that Mack’s return to Cleveland is a real option. “Alex is definitely leaving open the possibility of returning,” Younger said via email. “He enjoyed his visit last week, but this is the first opportunity he has had to truly choose where he will play next season.”

Mack is one of the top interior inside linemen in the NFL, and a former 2009 first-round draft pick (21st overall). He managed to secure a five-year, $42 million contract, which included $18 million guaranteed, from the Browns in 2014 after the club used the transition tag on him. NFL insider and FOXSports columnist Mike Garafolo also tweeted the news.

Caption: PITTSBURGH, PA – DECEMBER 30: Cortez Allen #28 of the Pittsburgh Steelers is tackled by Alex Mack #55 of the Cleveland Browns after returning a fumble during the game at Heinz Field on December 30, 2012 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Karl Walter/Getty Images)