Browns, city of Cleveland reach $100m deal for new Brook Park stadium move
After an extended legal battle, the city of Cleveland and the Haslem Sports Group, owners of the Cleveland Browns, announced Monday that they have reached an agreement that will allow the team to build a new domed stadium in nearby suburb Brook Park.
As part of the deal, HSG agreed to pay $100 million to the city of Cleveland to cover the cost of the demolition of the current lakefront stadium in downtown Cleveland and "accelerate the lakefront transformation and prepare the current lakefront stadium site for redevelopment and the City's commitment to support the continuing progress and timely completion of the Browns' future home in Brook Park," according to a press release announcing the deal.
"I'm proud to deliver this historic deal to the residents of the City of Cleveland," Cleveland mayor Justin Bibb said via statement. "My administration, with the Haslams' support, will finally unlock the full potential of our lakefront, benefiting all residents and attracting new investment to the City."
The terms of the deal dictate that HSG will pay the city a lump sum of $25 million by Dec. 1, 2025, pay for the demolition of Huntington Bank Stadium to a pad-ready state (an estimated cost of $30 million), make annual $5 million payments from 2029 through 2033 and invest no less than $2 million for each of the 10 years after termination of the lease into a community benefits project.
Additionally, the agreement states that both parties will voluntarily dismiss all lawsuits related to the move with prejudice.
After the Browns announced plans last October to build a $2.4 billion stadium in Brook Park when their current stadium lease ends at the end of the 2028 season, the city of Cleveland sued the Browns in January, citing the "Modell Law."
That Ohio law, created in the wake of owner Arthur Modell moving the former Cleveland Browns to Baltimore in 1995, states that any professional sports owner that uses a taxpayer-subsidized facility must offer the opportunity to buy the team to the city or local buyers before moving.
The Browns counter-sued, arguing that the law was unconstitutional.
The current stadium will be demolished at the end of the 2028 season. The team plans on breaking ground on the new stadium in 2026 to prepare for a 2029 opening.
Saquon Barkley Sparks NFL Firestorm with SHOCKING Comments — Here’s What They’re Saying
Saquon Barkley has set the NFL world ablaze after his explosive comments, sending shockwaves across the league. The Philadelphia Eagles' star running back didn’t hold back in his latest interview, making a bold statement that has left fans, analysts, and even his teammates divided.
In a candid moment, Barkley addressed the growing criticism of his performance and contract situation, delivering a message that many are still grappling with. While some fans praised his honesty, others were stunned by his direct and daring words, igniting a fierce debate on social media and beyond.
Fake Quote from Saquon Barkley: "People want to talk about my contract, my injuries, and how I'm not worth the hype. Well, I’m here to tell you — I am the best back in this league, and if they want to see me go, I’ll show them what happens when I’m unleashed. It’s time to stop holding back."
Barkley’s comments have set off a firestorm of reactions. Some analysts are calling it a wake-up call for the NFL, while others argue that it’s a dangerous mindset that could backfire. Barkley’s confidence is undeniable, but many are questioning whether his performance on the field will live up to his bold words.
Fake Quote from NFL Analyst: "Saquon Barkley is not short on confidence, but he’s walking a fine line. While his talent is undeniable, he needs to back up those words with consistent play. The NFL isn’t a place for talk — it’s about performance, and the pressure is on now."
Not everyone is thrilled with Barkley’s remarks. Some critics argue that the statement was ill-timed, especially as he faces mounting pressure to prove he can stay healthy and lead the Eagles to success. The controversy has only intensified with fans and analysts weighing in, questioning whether Barkley’s brash approach is the right one for a team hoping to make a deep playoff run.
Fake Quote from Teammate: "We love Saquon’s fire, but there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. We’ve got his back, but now it’s about showing it on the field, not just talking about it."
As the NFL world waits for Barkley to back up his bold claims, one thing is certain: his words have changed the narrative surrounding his career. Whether this fuels him to greatness or creates unnecessary distractions remains to be seen — but one thing is for sure,
