Phil Dawson To Be a Holdout In 2009

According to Adam Schefter, formerly of the NFL Network and soon to be joining ESPN, Cleveland Browns placekicker Phil Dawson is likely to be a holdout for the 2009 season. "Prediction based on what I'm hearing: Phil Dawson will not kick for Cleveland this season. He wants a new contract and there's a standoff." - Schefter's Twitter The man who kept the Browns afloat last year in an anemic offense is asking for a new contract, and after initially returning to the mini-camp sessions, it appears he's ready to stay home until he gets it. What does this mean for Cleveland? With a stubborn new coach, who lacks the people skills to see players as anything more than employees, it probably means an exit for  Dawson from the Cleveland Browns. Last year, Dawson was seemingly the only offensive player who could put points on the board, and it would be heartbreaking to lose him. All feelings aside for Dawson, who is the last of the "new Browns", sticking to the Mangini philosophy, if you ... (link)