Report: Browns won't retain Travis Benjamin ahead of free agency

The Cleveland Browns will not retain wide receiver Travis Benjamin ahead of free agency, Benjamin's agent, Ron Butler, told NFL Network's Rand Getlin.

Benjamin is coming off a breakout campaign in which he recorded 68 receptions for 966 yards and five touchdowns.

It was reported Monday that he and the Browns were close to reaching a new contract, but Butler said talks broke down, and Benjamin will hit the open market.

Butler said the Browns were open to a contract extension but the two parties couldn't agree on terms.

Benjamin is slated to become one of the marquee wide receivers of this year's free-agent class, possessing outstanding breakaway speed that will make him an asset to a host of clubs.

Butler said Benjamin is looking forward to speaking to new teams at "the appropriate time," likely indicating March 9, the start of free agency.