BEREA — Veteran tight end Steve Heiden was released by the Browns on Friday night, hours after they signed free-agent tight end Ben Watson.

Heiden was the second-longest-tenured player on the roster, next to kicker Phil Dawson. Heiden joined the Browns in 2002 in a trade that ranks among the best of the expansion era. He started 70 games with the Browns and was among their most reliable players. He scored a career-high five touchdowns in 2004.

Heiden started six games in 2009 before finishing the year on injured reserve with an ankle injury. He ended 2008 on IR with a knee injury that required surgery, but fought to return in time for the 2009 opener.

Linebacker Jason Trusnik signed a one-year, $1.684 million contract Friday. The Browns gave him a second-round tender as a restricted free agent, so he could’ve entertained offers from other teams. By signing the deal, he’s under contract for 2010.

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