Art Modell (Andy Lyons/ALLSPORT)
Reporting Daryl Ruiter
BEREA (92.3 The Fan) - The passing of former Ravens and Browns owner Art Modell has brought forth reflections from across the NFL and including in Berea.
Browns president Mike Holmgren reflected on Modell’s passing Thursday.
“He was a very fun guy, a gregarious guy,” Holmgren said. “I enjoyed him very much.
“My heart really goes out to the family in these situations as I’m sure yours does.”
Holmgren also acknowledged Modell’s influence and efforts in the NFL establishing it’s network presence and revenue sharing.
He almost worked for him in Baltimore after he left Green Bay in 1999. Holmgren was Modell’s choice to replace Ted Marchibroda, whom he hired to coach the Ravens in 1996.
“It was going to be Seattle, Baltimore, Philadelphia,” Holmgren said. “That was going to be the week of interviews.”
Modell called Holmgren and urged him to visit the Ravens first but Holmgren flew to Seattle instead.
“I explained I had made the plans to go to Seattle first,” Holmgren said. “Well, I never left Seattle. It worked out. I remember Art in his way said, ‘OK,’.” But every time I saw him he always jabbed me that I should have come to Baltimore.”
The Browns currently have no plans to deviate from their regular pregame ceremonies for the season opener against the Eagles.
