The NFL "is working overtime behind the scenes" on finding a
solution to the Browns' proposed move to Baltimore, according to
ESPN's Chris Mortensen. He added that if Cleveland's $175M
stadium renovation package "is real, the NFL will fight the war.
... The NFL figures to push Art Modell to sell the club, settle
his debt and gain his wealth that way" ("NFL GameDay," 11/26).
Bob Glauber also notes NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue "is
believed to be ready to fight the move" (THE SPORTING NEWS,
11/27). VOTE COUNTING: AP's Dave Goldberg analyzes how NFL
teams "might vote" on the Browns. AGAINST (4): Bills, Chiefs,
Patriots, Redskins. FOR (18): Cardinals, Falcons, Panthers,
Browns, Bears, Cowboys, Broncos, Lions, Oilers, Colts, Jaguars,
Dolphins, Saints, Eagles, Rams, Chargers, Seahawks, Buccaneers.
LEANING FOR (2): Giants, Jets. ABSTAIN (1): Raiders. "HARD TO
TELL" (5): Bengals, Packers, Vikings, Steelers, 49ers (L.A.
TIMES, 11/26).
HELP? Tagliabue and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman testify
before Congress Wednesday on bills seeking to control franchise
movement (ESPN, 11/26). In S.F., Glenn Dickey cites league
sources and reports the NFL "is strongly lobbying Congress for a
limited antitrust exemption to prevent the Browns from moving"
(S.F. CHRONICLE, 11/24).
LABOR-MANAGEMENT IN AGREEMENT? NBC's Will McDonough said
NFLPA Exec Dir Gene Upshaw told him he has visited every team and
"has their permission to make a deal [on a new CBA]. He wants to
get a new one done by the end of the year" ("NFL Live," NBC,
11/24). In his Sunday column, McDonough reports Upshaw has told
owners -- "for the right price" -- the union would include a
labor expemption to control team moves and internal lawsuits.
Some owners are "skeptical," as they feel the union will use the
exemption in bargaining against a hard cap (BOSTON GLOBE, 11/26).
ESPN's Chris Mortensen noted that Tagliabue meets Upshaw Tuesday
and also reports Upshaw "is offering help on the labor exemption
front" ("NFL Gameday," 11/26).
