Sam Bradford

Sam Bradford could pose a problem if the Eagles want to trade him to the Browns in an attempt to move up in the draft to get Marcus Mariota. (AP Photo | Matt Slocum)

If you were connecting dots on how the Eagles, with the 20th pick in the NFL Draft, could move up high enough to select Oregon quarterback Marcus Mariota, the Cleveland Browns were always in the middle.

The Browns, who have been known to like current Eagles quarterback Sam Bradford and own both the 12th and 19th overall picks in the draft, were being highly considered as a third piece to the puzzle that somehow lands the Eagles one of the top picks in the April 30 draft.

Now, that may no longer be feasible.

According to a person with knowledge of the situation who asked for anonymity because he was not authorized to speak on the subject, the Browns could be out on Bradford.

Not because Cleveland doesn't still want the former No. 1 overall pick, but because he doesn't want the Browns.

"Bradford's agent (Tom Condon) has told Cleveland he won't even listen on a contract extension,'' the person said. "He won't even listen, period. And I don't think Cleveland will make a deal without the extension.''

Bradford is in the final year of his rookie contract and will earn $12.9 million this season from whoever is employer happens to be.

NFL DRAFT:

Full coverage of the 2015 draft class

Is there any chance the Eagles can come to terms on a long-term deal with Bradford before the start of 2015 season?

"I'm not sure a deal gets done,'' the person said. "But (Condon) will at least listen to the Eagles.''

If Cleveland has indeed ended its pursuit of Bradford, the Browns could now intensify its effort to move up in the draft and land Mariota.

Follow Mark Eckel on Twitter at @MarkEckel08. Find NJ.com Sports on Facebook.Contact Mark Eckel at mjeck04@verizon.net.

