Browns Parting With GM Symbolic Of Season

The Browns part ways with GM George Kokinis last night, marking the latest complication for Owner Randy Lerner in what is becoming a nightmare season. Kokinis’ departure is the most recent move that shows the soft-spoken Lerner is not pleased with the team’s 1-7 start this year. In recent weeks, he has fired Dir of Team Operations Erin O’Brien, a confidant of coach Eric Mangini, and brought in former All-Pro Bernie Kosar as a consultant. While Lerner is publicly backing Mangini, ESPN’s James Walker notes it is “clear some of his power has been stripped” by the suddenly hands-on owner. Meanwhile, Lerner was scheduled to meet today with a pair of disgruntled long-time fans planning a protest for the team’s “MNF” appearance in two weeks.

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