Cleveland quarterback Derek Anderson should rest easy tonight.

Not only does he now have the security of a multiyear contract, Anderson couldn’t be in a better situation at this point than playing for the Browns.

Anderson allowed himself to test the market as a restricted free agent today and didn’t like what he saw. There’s plenty to like in Cleveland, which is why he agreed to a new deal.

He’s got an outstanding offensive line in front of him. Great, young targets to throw to in Braylon Edwards and Kellen Winslow. A 1,300-yard rusher (Jamal Lewis) behind him in the backfield.

Anderson wouldn’t have anywhere near the same caliber of surrounding cast had he signed elsewhere.

And while exact terms of his contract aren’t yet known, Anderson is now set for life financially. Even if 2007 first-round draft pick Brady Quinn ultimately proves ready for a starting spot, the 24-year-old Anderson will be heading for another big payday down the road as long as he continues playing at the same caliber as last season

In my book, the Anderson and Lewis re-signings as well as the trade to acquire Green Bay defensive tackle Corey Williams makes -- gasp! --- Cleveland the team to beat in the AFC North.