Since Jimmy Haslam took over the Cleveland Browns, they’ve gone 16-25, drafted a party-hard quarterback upon the advice of a homeless guy, and gotten themselves in trouble for illegal texting during games.
They’ve changed strategies, coaches, General Managers and team presidents, saw their best player repeatedly suspended for substance abuse, and unveiled a new logo which involved moving one block over on the Pantone chart.
Oh, and Haslam’s been investigated on federal fraud charges resulting in paying a $92 million settlement to the government.
But you know who thinks Haslam’s doing a swell job? NFL commissioner Roger Goodell.
Via Marla Ridenour of the Akron Beacon Journal, Goodell praised the work Haslam’s doing to turn around (?) the Browns.
“I’m a big fan of Jimmy Haslam,” Goodell said. “There are few quick fixes in this business and the league is so competitive. You really have to build a foundation. If it was easy, anybody could do it. There are 32 competitive teams.
“He’s learned a great deal. He’s making very smart decisions for the long term. I think this community — and I know this is Browns country — I think they’re fortunate to have Jimmy Haslam as an owner and we’re fortunate to have him.”
As endorsements go, that ranks right up there with “Brownie, you’re doing a heck of a job.”
Goodell made the comments during an appearance at the Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce dinner, taking questions in a relaxed setting from Hall of Famer Dan Dierdorf, and not reporters, who would have certainly leaned in on the assertion that there’s nothing to see here.