The Denver Broncos have signed defensive end Courtney Brown to a free agent contract according to a report published in the 'Rocky Mountain News.'

Brown has been hampered by injuries since the Cleveland Browns made him the top overall pick in the 2000 draft. In 2004, he only played in two games before having foot surgery that ended his season.

The Browns made an effort to keep their former top pick but were unable to renegotiate his contract. He was due a $3 million roster bonus and the team could not agree on new terms with Brown's agent.

Brown had also been negotiating with the Redskins, Seahawks and Jaguars before signing a deal with the Broncos.

The 27-year-old Penn State alum has 17 career sacks in 47 NFL games. He has missed 33 games due to injury.