The score is now Phil Savage 1, John Collins 0.
Owner Randy Lerner came to his senses and removed John Collins as team President rather than risk losing General Manager Phil Savage, who had obviously made it clear that he could not, or would not continue to coexist with Collins.
Fan outrage over the reported firing of Savage is thought to have played a major role in the latest turn of events. Here is the latest ESPN.com report on today's developments, which is also notable in that it is written by Len Pasquarelli and not Chris Mortensen, whose Friday report triggered the public/fan reaction to the team's internal shakeup:
The shakeup in the Cleveland Browns' front office will not involve general manager Phil Savage.In a remarkable twist, John Collins, who has served as Browns' team president since May 1, 2004, resigned Tuesday, owner Randy Lerner said.
"Phil Savage and Romeo Crennel will remain in their current roles and I will assume the responsibilities left open by John's departure," Lerner said. "It is my expectation that the role of president will be filled although there are no current candidates or time frame set to do so."
Last week, ESPN's Chris Mortensen reported that Savage would be fired because of "philosophical differences" with some members of the organization, and several sources confirmed that was the case. But the public reaction to the report was so strong, and the backlash so negative, it Browns officials reconsidered the move.
The Browns will try again with an executive from the NFL home office, having hired Mike Keenan, late of the NFL Management Council, as their new V.P. of Finance and Administration.
Posted by dan at January 3, 2006 2:52 PM