Holmgren tells Hillis he's trying to keep him

Browns president Mike Holmgren said he spoke recently with Peyton Hillis and told the running back that he's trying to keep him, according to The Plain Dealer's Mary Kay Cabot. Hillis At a news conference Thursday, Holmgren said there was no way he was going to trade Hillis before the NFL deadline but contract talks with Hillis have been "quiet." It appears that all of the drama this season -- which includes the questions surrounding Hillis sitting out the Miami game -- has affected negotiations.

"Let's let Peyton play," Holmgren said. "Let the dust settle and let's see what happens."

This is different from nine weeks ago, when Holmgren said the Browns are "trying like crazy" to sign Hillis to an extension. Hillis' contract ends after this season.

Holmgren also noted that the Browns will hire an offensive coordinator next season "in all likelihood." But he indicated coach Pat Shurmur will still have the option of calling plays like he's done this year.

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