New regime trying to re-invent Browns
For the third time in seven years, the Browns are reinventing themselves. Everything is new but their familiar drab uniforms and orange helmets.
The Browns have a new general manager in Phil Savage, a new head coach in Romeo Crennel, two new coordinators, a new 3-4 defensive system, a new starting quarterback in Trent Dilfer and two new backup quarterbacks, a new running back in Reuben Droughns and a new receiver in Braylon Edwards.
They could have as many as 16 new starters from the lineup that closed the 2004 season with a win.
This newness is getting old. The rabid Cleveland football market has suffered through two playoff appearances in 12 seasons, plus three years of no football. Since the Browns returned as an expansion team in 1999, they have had losing seasons in five of six years. Crennel is their third head coach.
"In my opinion, there's a lost generation of Browns fans out there," Savage said. "They haven't enjoyed the feel-good atmosphere of having a quality, winning product. That is really our objective."
Savage left the rival Ravens for the Browns' GM job. He has a good understanding of the market, having started his NFL career as a coaching assistant in Cleveland in 1991.
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