Brandon Browner lands in New England

Cornerback Brandon Browner, who in 2011 went from Canadian Football League standout to NFL Pro Bowler with the Seahawks, has signed with the New England Patriots. Browner announced the move himself on Twitter, and according to reports, Browner’s deal is worth $17 million over three years.

With the Seahawks needing to set aside money for fellow cornerback Richard Sherman as well as safety Earl Thomas, who are set to hit free agency next year, it was unlikely Brower was going to come back toSeattle. That became even more evident when Browner was suspended late last season for violating the league’s substance abuse policy and Byron Maxwell excelled in his place. Browner, who missed the final four games of last season, was originally suspended for a minimum of one year, but had the suspension reduced. He now will serve a four-game suspension to open next season. Browner also missed the final four games of the 2012 season serving a suspension for a PED violation.

Here’s Browner’s announcement, as well as a nice thank you to the Seahawks anf fans.

“Today, I am proud to announce that I am a New England Patriot. I am honored that the Patriots are making me part of their legendary organization, and am grateful for the opportunity Mr. Kraft, Coach Belichick, Nick Caserio and the entire team have given me. I intend to diligently work with the same passion and dedication that I have displayed since coming into the NFL to uphold the great traditions and qualities that are embodied by the Patriots. I would be remiss if I didn’t thank the Seattle Seahawks for giving a CFL player the once in-a-lifetime opportunity to return to the NFL, making a young boy’s dream come true. To Coach Pete Carroll, GM John Schneider, John Idzik, Coach Richard, Rocky Seto, the LOB, my teammates, the training staff, the equipment guys the Seahawks organization as a whole and most importantly the 12th Man, I say thank you for everything you have done for myself and my family. I am a truly blessed person.”