The Cleveland Browns want to re-sign running back Peyton Hillis, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.

However, the Browns will not place the franchise tag on him in order to retain him, says the report. The franchise tag for running backs is $7.7 million.

HIllis blossomed into a star in 2010, even to the point where he graced the cover of the most recent edition of the Madden video game. But in 2011, he struggled with a hamstring injury and in dealing with his contract situation.

If the Browns use the franchise, the report says they are more likely to do so with long-time kicker Phil Dawson, a figure that would cost the Browns $3.8 million.

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Terry McCormick covers the Titans for TitanInsider.com