Crennel is looking to restore Cleveland's fortunes

The Cleveland Plain Dealer reported Crennel has signed a five-year contract worth up to $2m in its first season.

The 57-year-old becomes the NFL's sixth black coach.

The others are Lovie Smith (Chicago), Herman Edwards (NY Jets) Tony Dungy (Indianapolis), Dennis Green (Arizona) and Marvin Lewis (Cincinnati).

"The last couple days have been really good for me," said Crennel.

"Along with winning the Super Bowl, being named head coach of the Cleveland Browns is a special accomplishment."

He takes over a Browns team that went just 4-12 last season to fall to 30-66 since rejoining the league in 1999.

Butch Davis, who had been signed through 2007, resigned in November and was replaced by offensive co-ordinator Terry Robiskie for the remaining five games of the season.

"I've been in this league for a little while and worked long and hard to try and get some things done," said Crennel, who stressed fundamentals and teamwork in his address to the media.

"I've been somewhat successful as a position coach. Now I'm able to take the reins of a team and try to run a whole programme.

"It's going to be a big challenge, but I'm looking forward to it."