Report: Joe Thomas wants to decide Browns future before free agency

Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Joe Thomas has reportedly set a short deadline to come to a decision on his status for the 2018 season.

Thomas said he hasn't yet decided, but wants to be able to inform the Browns before the start of free agency on March 14 whether he'll return for a 12th season, according to Dave Chudowsky of WKYC.

The 10-time Pro Bowler and six-time first-team All-Pro tackle played in just seven games in 2017 before suffering a season-ending triceps injury in Week 7. It was the first season he's missed the Pro Bowl, and the first snaps he's missed since being drafted third overall by the Browns in 2007.

Thomas, 33, is due a base salary of $10.3 million in 2018, according to Over The Cap.

Thomas also told Chudowsky he's been exploring options for a television job.