Recently an ESPN segment aired with a list of the top 5 NFL fan bases. And the Cleveland Browns fan base was not on the list. Former NFL player Chris Canty incorrectly stated that the reason the Browns left in 1995 was because of lack of fan support. That was not true, and he was quickly corrected on the show panel. Radio host Evan Cohen also came to the defense of Cleveland Browns fans. He pointed out the recent thirty-year history of what Cleveland Browns fans have endured.

In 1995 the Cleveland Browns opened their season with fan enthusiasm, the team made it to the divisional round of the NFL playoffs in 1994. The team was picked that year by some pundits to make the Super Bowl. But the season was derailed after Art Modell announced the move to Baltimore Maryland. When the announcement was made the team was tied for first place in the AFC Central Division. The Browns had a 4-4 record on that day. They finished the 1995 season with a 5-11 record. To keep the team Cleveland Browns fans acted.

What followed the Art Modell betrayal was a herculean effort by Cleveland Browns fans to keep the Browns in Cleveland. The NFL was inundated with letters and faxes from Cleveland Browns to keep the team. Also, an extension on a syntax to fund the new stadium was passed by 80% yes to 20% no margin. The NFL did accommodate Browns fans by giving Cleveland an expansion team in 1999. At the time Browns fans were excited to have a team. But we didn’t know the raw deal that we received.

The city of Cleveland was awarded an expansion franchise in September of 1998. The team had to be assembled and start training camp in 10 months. It was a doomed endeavor from the start. The 1999 Cleveland Browns went 2-14. For the next 20 years the Browns only had two winning seasons and one playoff season. That is why fans of the team can be jaded. Especially the younger fans that weren’t alive in the 1980’s when the team was expected to win and contend for the playoffs. Some fans can be so desensitized that don’t see what is in front of them.

In the last four years the Cleveland Browns have a winning record, 2 playoff appearances, and a playoff road win in Pittsburgh. With recent stability in the front office and head coach, the Browns are starting to emulate a successful NFL franchise. The fans will see that in time and with sustained success of the team. Being jaded or skeptical is normal with life experience. And for the Cleveland Browns fans and their experience. They will believe in the Cleveland Browns success when they see it.