Former Towson linebacker Monte Gaddis wants to play for the Browns and he has taken some unusual steps to get their attention, as Zack Meisel of The Plain Dealer writes. Gaddis has been standing outside of the Browns’ complex with a sign with messages such as “Overlooked Cleveland native,” “Starving for my first shot,” and “Why not?” On Wednesday, GM Ray Farmer came outside, speaking with Gaddis and requesting some game film. Now, Gaddis is waiting at home to see if his phone rings with an opportunity to audition for the Browns.

As we look forward to seeing if Gaddis’ unusual job application pays dividends, let’s check out some more items from out of the AFC North….

• Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta should retire, but his determination won’t let him, writes Jamison Hensley of ESPN.com. Pitta was placed on IR Wednesday, meaning that he will not play a snap in 2015. Still, Pitta is dead set on returning to the field next year, despite his constant hip problems. “I’m a football player and that’s what I’ve always wanted to do,” said Pitta. “I have a sense of duty to my teammates, the team and to this organization. This organization has given me a lot over the last few years.” The tight end has played in only three games since receiving a five-year deal with $16MM guaranteed in February 2014.
• Despite Pitta’s perseverance, Rob Carlin and Brian Mitchell of CSNMidAtlantic.com (video link) are concerned that the Ravens tight end’s playing days are through.
• The Bengals worked out quarterback Cody Fajardo, along with wide receivers Donte Foster, Colin Lockett, and DeVier Posey this week, tweets Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle.