Benard signed to active roster

11.09.2009

When the Browns gathered for a team meeting Monday morning upon returning from a long bye weekend, Eric Mangini announced that undrafted rookie LB Marcus Benard has been elevated from the practice squad to the active roster.

And Benard's teammates responded to the announcement with a round of applause.

How's that for something to brighten a Monday morning?

"I tried to keep my composure, act like I'd been there before," Benard said. "Then everybody starts clapping."

A defensive end at Jackson State, Benard made a splash in the Browns' preseason opener at Green Bay in August with 6 tackles, a sack and a quarterback hit that led to an interception. He was released in early September as the Browns shaped their regular-season roster and re-signed to the practice squad.

Browns Head Coach Eric Mangini said Benard will play outside and David Veikune will continue to play inside, allowing both rookies the opportunity to concentrate on one spot.

From the preseason: Benard makes strong first impression

QUICK HITS: Mangini said he'll announce his decision on the starting quarterback Wednesday...The Browns still have one open spot on the active roster. Mangini said the Browns will hold workouts for some free agents on Tuesday...Mangini said he'll know more on the status of injured linebacker Eric Barton either later today or tomorrow.