BEREA -- The pen of Browns GM Tom Heckert has struck again.

Heckert has signed linebacker Chris Gocong to a three-year contract extension. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the deal to be worth $16.8 million.

Gocong, 27, was drafted in the third round by Philadelphia in 2003 when Heckert was Eagles vice president of player personnel. Heckert traded for Gocong in his first season as Browns general manager last year. The deal also brought cornerback Sheldon Brown in exchange for linebacker Alex Hall and fourth- and fifth-round draft picks in 2010.

Gocong missed most of training camp with a neck stinger. But he has played every game once the season started. He shared a sack in the Miami game and added two quarterback hurries.

Gocong is the fourth core player to receive a contract extension this year by the Browns. The others were left tackle Joe Thomas, tight end Evan Moore and defensive tackle Ahtyba Rubin.

The Browns also are trying to extend the contract of running back Peyton Hillis.