NFL sources say the Bucs have renewed talks with
representatives in Cleveland in recent days and that those
discussions are "heating up," according to the TAMPA TRIBUNE.
The sources say the Bucs have been talking with an unidentified
point man with no ties to Cleveland government officials. Pat
Yasinskas reports that, for the first time, NFL officials are
acknowledging that other cities and teams may be drawn into the
Browns situation. NFL VP of Communications Joe Browne: "If the
Browns are approved and moved, then what happens to Cleveland?
If someone goes to Cleveland, what happens to the third city?
There's a ripple effect here." Bucs VP Bryan Glazer said no
discussions are planned with Tampa officials until the team
receives a specific proposal. While the team is also said to
have held discussions with L.A., Orlando and Hartford, Cleveland
is the only city with a package for a new or renovated stadium.
Tampa Stadium Authority Chair Steven Anderson dismissed the
rumors adding that Tampa officials will start working with other
communities to pursue federal legislation to prevent franchise
moves. Tampa officials have also "hinted" at legal retaliation
over a move, or if they believe the NFL is helping to negotiate a
move (TAMPA TRIBUNE, 1/17). The Central Florida NFL Committee
held its inaugural meeting yesterday in its efforts to bring an
NFL team to the Orlando area (Gene Yashuda, ORLANDO SENTINEL,
1/17).
