The Cleveland Browns are a professional American football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the AFC North Division. Known for their passionate fan base, rich football history, and rivalries with teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens, the Browns play their home games at Cleveland Browns Stadium (Huntington Bank Field) in Cleveland.
Founded in 1944 by businessman Arthur B. McBride, the team officially began play in 1946 and was named after legendary coach Paul Brown. After decades of highs and lows, the Browns remain one of the NFL’s iconic franchises.
As of September 2025, the team is owned by Jimmy Haslam and Dee Haslam, who acquired the Browns in 2012.
Ownership Status of Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns are privately owned, not publicly traded. Ownership rests with the Haslam family, through their entity Haslam Sports Group (HSG).
Current Owners
- Jimmy Haslam (Chairman & Principal Owner)
- Dee Haslam (Managing & Principal Partner)
- Whitney Haslam Johnson (Managing Partner, family member involvement)
The Haslams purchased the Browns from Randy Lerner in 2012 for approximately $1 billion, with NFL owners unanimously approving the deal in October 2012.
Key Shareholder Highlights
| Owner / Partner | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jimmy Haslam | Chairman / Principal Owner | Former Pilot Flying J CEO, also co-owner of Columbus Crew SC (MLS). |
| Dee Haslam | Managing Partner | Actively oversees team operations and Browns community engagement. |
| Whitney Haslam Johnson | Managing Partner | Member of the Haslam family, involved in ownership leadership structure. |
| Randy Lerner (former) | Previous Owner | Sold the Browns in 2012 after inheriting ownership from his father Al Lerner. |
Note: Unlike publicly traded companies, there are no institutional shareholders. The Browns are entirely held under the Haslam family ownership group.
Recent Developments in Ownership
- In recent years, Jimmy and Dee Haslam have been actively involved in discussions about the future of the Browns’ stadium, including options for renovation or building a new facility.
- The Haslams have also faced scrutiny for football operations decisions, including the high-profile signing of quarterback Deshaun Watson, which they later acknowledged as a major risk.
- In 2023, the Haslam Sports Group expanded its sports portfolio by buying into the Milwaukee Bucks (NBA), reflecting their growing influence in U.S. professional sports ownership.
FAQs
1. Who is the current owner of the Cleveland Browns?
The Cleveland Browns are owned by Jimmy Haslam and Dee Haslam, operating through Haslam Sports Group.
2. Is the Cleveland Browns publicly traded or privately owned?
The team is privately owned by the Haslam family.
3. Who founded the Cleveland Browns?
The franchise was founded in 1944 by Arthur B. McBride, with legendary coach Paul Brown as its namesake and first head coach.
4. Has the ownership changed recently?
Ownership has remained with the Haslam family since 2012, when they purchased the team from Randy Lerner. Changes occur in management focus, but not in ownership itself.
Cleveland Browns Official Site
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