Newz Forum: FOOTBALL: Unwelcomed by Browns, Couch files grievance

Quarterback Tim Couch has filed a grievance against the Cleveland Browns, who have banned him from working out with them even though he is still under contract.


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Couch didn't participate in the club's voluntary quarterback school this week. He also missed minicamp earlier this month after the Browns told him to stop coming to their training facility while they tried to trade him.

The Browns have been attempting to work out a deal for Couch, a former No. 1 overall pick, since signing free-agent quarterback Jeff Garcia as their starter in March.

Team spokesman Todd Stewart said Friday that Couch had filed the grievance through the National Football League Players Association earlier this week. Stewart had no other comment.

The NFLPA did not immediately return a message.

Couch had been working out at the team's training facility in Berea until Garcia was signed. Soon after, the Browns told Couch he was no longer welcome.

Before minicamp, the Browns went so far as to clean out Couch's locker and remove his nameplate.

Couch has been working out at his offseason home in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He did not immediately return a phone message seeking comment Friday.

On Thursday, Browns coach Butch Davis said he has no plans to release Couch after June 1. Davis also said there was still a possibility Couch could return as a backup.

That seems to be unlikely, however, since Couch's contract is for $7.6 million this season and $8 million in 2005.

Agent Tom Condon has had talks with the Green Bay Packers about Couch becoming Brett Favre's backup but has so far been unable to work out a deal.

AP NEWS
The Associated Press News Service

[Edited on 22/5/04 by TRD]