Peyton Hillis said last week that he wants to remain in Cleveland for a long time, and Friday morning Browns President Mike Holmgren confirmed that the club is doing everything it can to make that wish a reality.
"We're trying like crazy to wrap him up for a long time,'' Holmgren said on ESPN's "Mike and Mike Show," via The Plain Dealer. "He's something, isn't he?"
Hillis was one of the NFL's revelations last season, leading the Browns with 1,177 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground. Hillis added two touchdown receptions and finished third in the NFL with 13 total scores.
After two nondescript seasons in Denver, Hillis has found a home in Cleveland.
"I think this team, this city, even the colors, represent who I am. As an individual, as a person and as a player," Hillis said. "So I would love to be here as long the Browns want me here."
NFL Network Insider Jason La Canfora, citing team sources, reported Friday it does not appear that a deal is imminent and the two sides are pretty far apart as they attempt to assess Hillis' value.
The fourth-year running back is in the final year of his rookie contract that will pay out $550,000, according to The Dealer. The paper recently reported that the Browns had begun contract negotiations with Hillis' agent, Kennard McQuire, but McQuire would not comment on the talks saying his client is solely focused on the 2011 season.
The Brownshost the Cincinnati Bengals in an AFC North showdown on Sunday.