Despite reports this week to the contrary, Cleveland Browns quarterback Derek Anderson did not have offseason knee surgery following a left MCL injury that ended his 2008 season, multiple sources told ESPN.com.
The Browns have avoided this question for months now, which led some to think surgery was needed. But sources said surgery wasn't necessary for Anderson, and that Cleveland's decision to be secretive and evasive about injuries is simply a way of life under new head coach Eric Mangini.
"Derek's 100 percent," Browns general manager George Kokinis said bluntly Thursday when asked about the quarterback and surgery.
Anderson has been working out at the Browns' training facility this offseason in preparation for this summer's competition with fellow quarterback Brady Quinn. The pair also has been the subject of trade rumors in the past few months.
After making the Pro Bowl in 2007, Anderson struggled last season. He threw for 1,615 yards, just nine touchdowns and eight interceptions in 10 games. The Browns finished 4-12 in 2008.
James Walker covers the AFC North for ESPN.com