With only 60 percent of Deshaun Watson’s landmark five-year, $230 million contract completed, Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has publicly acknowledged what many have already suspected: the trade for Watson is arguably one of the most disastrous transactions in NFL history. Haslam conceded that the decision was a "complete and total failure," adding that ownership should ultimately bear some accountability for this misstep.
While Haslam's statement about accountability may sound significant, it raises important questions. What does it truly mean for ownership to be held accountable? As noted by 49ers CEO Jed York, owners cannot be fired. Furthermore, no fan base will willingly abstain from supporting their team long enough to force ownership to sell. This suggests that the concept of accountability in the NFL is largely superficial, with no real consequences for ownership decisions.
Despite the apparent foolishness of the decision, the implications for ownership are minimal. NFL franchises are incredibly lucrative, generating substantial revenue with virtually no risk of going bankrupt. In fact, the collective financial success of the NFL means that even poorly managed franchises are unlikely to face financial ruin. The reality is that ownership in the NFL can afford to make poor decisions without facing dire consequences.
For the loyal fan base of the Cleveland Browns, the situation is frustrating. For the past 13 years under the Haslam ownership, fans have been subjected to a series of mismanagements and dysfunction. The question arises: what can Browns fans do about this situation? Unfortunately, the answer appears to be “absolutely nothing.” This apathy mirrors the experiences of fans from other teams struggling with ineffective ownership and management.
The Cleveland Browns' predicament highlights a broader issue within the NFL. While some teams manage to become competitive, others remain mired in dysfunction due to owners who lack the necessary skills to run a successful franchise. This ongoing problem not only affects the performance of the teams but also dampens the spirits of dedicated fans who deserve better.
In conclusion, while the admission of failure by Jimmy Haslam regarding Deshaun Watson’s contract is a step towards acknowledging the issue, it does little to change the reality for fans. The cycle of ownership accountability in the NFL remains a complex topic without clear solutions, leaving many supporters feeling helpless and frustrated.
