The Cleveland Browns have a long and eventful history in the NFL, with passionate fans supporting them through highs and lows. From early championships to a dramatic relocation and revival, the team has remained central to Cleveland’s identity. Today, many wonder who owns Cleveland Browns and how its ownership shapes the franchise’s future.
Cleveland Browns Profile
The Cleveland Browns are one of the oldest and most recognized franchises in professional football. Founded in the mid-1940s, the team has gone through dominant early years, ownership controversies, relocation, and eventual rebirth. Despite challenges, the Browns remain a symbol of resilience for the city of Cleveland.
The team has built a passionate fan base, produced legendary players, and continues to play an important role in the NFL landscape.
Founding Details
The franchise was established in 1944 by businessman Arthur B. “Mickey” McBride, who secured rights in the newly formed All-America Football Conference (AAFC).
McBride appointed Paul Brown as the first head coach and general manager. Paul Brown’s influence was so significant that the team was named after him, and under his leadership, the Browns quickly became one of the most dominant teams in American football history.
Major Milestones
- 1946: The Browns played their inaugural season in the AAFC and won the championship in their debut year.
- 1946–1949: They captured all four AAFC championships, establishing themselves as the league’s powerhouse.
- 1950: After joining the NFL, the Browns won the championship in their very first NFL season.
- 1954–1955: The franchise won back-to-back NFL championships, led by legendary quarterback Otto Graham.
- 1963: Owner Art Modell dismissed Paul Brown, marking a major turning point in franchise leadership.
- 1964: The Browns won their last NFL championship, defeating the Baltimore Colts.
- 1995: Modell announced the controversial relocation of the team to Baltimore, sparking outrage among fans and the city.
- 1996–1998: The Browns’ operations were suspended, but the franchise name, colors, and history were preserved for Cleveland.
- 1999: The Browns were reactivated as an expansion team and returned to play in a new stadium.
- 2002: The team was placed in the AFC North division following NFL realignment.
- 2024: The Browns endured a disappointing 3–14 season, signaling a need for a rebuild.
- 2025: Ownership committed $2 billion toward building a new retractable-roof stadium in Brook Park, scheduled to open in 2028.
Who Owns Cleveland Browns: Largest Shareholders
Ownership of the Cleveland Browns is held by the Haslam family, who purchased the franchise in 2012. Their leadership has been focused on stabilizing the organization, investing in player development, and securing the future of the team with a major stadium project announced in 2025.
While Jimmy Haslam serves as the primary controlling owner, Dee Haslam is also deeply involved in both business operations and community initiatives. Together, they hold nearly full ownership of the Browns, with no significant minority shareholders publicly disclosed.
| Shareholder | Percentage Stake | Role/Title | Ownership Details & Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jimmy Haslam | 70% | Controlling Owner | Majority shareholder and ultimate decision-maker. Oversees financial strategy, executive hires, and major projects like the $2B stadium announced in 2025. Provides long-term stability through his business background as chairman of Pilot Flying J. |
| Dee Haslam | 30% | Co-Owner | Active in community relations, branding, and cultural direction of the team. Influences fan engagement, social impact initiatives, and organizational inclusivity. Holds a decisive role in governance alongside Jimmy. |
| Haslam Family | 100% (collective) | Unified Ownership | The Browns are privately and fully owned by the Haslam family with no minority partners or external shareholders. This concentrated ownership allows unified decision-making and long-term strategic planning. |
Jimmy Haslam – Controlling Owner (70%)
Jimmy Haslam serves as the principal owner and controlling figure of the Cleveland Browns. He acquired the team in 2012 for approximately $1 billion and has remained active in both football and business operations. As chairman of Pilot Flying J, one of the largest fuel and travel center companies in the U.S., Haslam brings significant business acumen to the franchise.
His role includes making executive-level decisions on coaching hires, management structure, and long-term strategy.
In 2025, Jimmy Haslam spearheaded the $2 billion investment plan for a new retractable-roof stadium in Brook Park, Ohio, demonstrating his continued commitment to Cleveland and the team’s future growth.
Dee Haslam – Co-Owner (30%)
Dee Haslam, Jimmy’s wife, co-owns the Cleveland Browns and plays an essential role in shaping the team’s culture and public presence. She is actively engaged in community relations, brand building, and player support initiatives. Dee has also been influential in advancing diversity and inclusivity within the organization.
Her responsibilities extend to media, fan experience, and ensuring the franchise maintains a strong connection with the Cleveland community. In recent years, she has taken a leading role in initiatives aimed at improving the fan experience and supporting social impact programs.
Haslam Family Influence
The Haslam family collectively ensures stability and unified direction for the Browns. Their nearly complete ownership provides them with full control over franchise operations.
Unlike some NFL teams that have multiple minority investors, the Browns’ ownership structure remains tightly held within the Haslam family, giving them freedom to make bold and long-term decisions.
Their leadership has also been instrumental in pushing for the modernization of facilities, improved financial performance, and renewed competitiveness on the field. With the new stadium project and a continued emphasis on community involvement, the Haslams have positioned the Browns as both a business success and a cultural cornerstone for Cleveland.
Cleveland Browns Ownership History
The Cleveland Browns’ ownership story is as eventful as the team’s on-field journey. From their founding in the 1940s to the controversial relocation in the 1990s and the eventual return under new ownership, the franchise has seen several major transitions. Each ownership era left its mark on the team, shaping its identity and direction, leading up to today’s Haslam family stewardship.
| Owner(s) | Years of Ownership | Stake Held | Purchase Price | Key Contributions / Milestones | Transition Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mickey McBride | 1944–1953 | 100% | N/A (franchise awarded in AAFC) | Founded the team in 1944, hired Paul Brown, won 4 AAFC titles (1946–1949), NFL Championship in 1950. | Sold his interest in the early 1950s. |
| Art Modell | 1961–1995 | 100% | ~$4 million | Won 1964 NFL Championship, longest-serving owner, controversial firing of Paul Brown, attempted stadium improvements. Relocated the franchise to Baltimore in 1995. | Settled with NFL and Cleveland — left Browns’ name, colors, and history in the city. |
| Al Lerner | 1999–2002 | 100% | ~$530 million | Purchased expansion franchise rights when Browns were reactivated in 1999, restored football to Cleveland. | Passed away in 2002, team transitioned to his son. |
| Randy Lerner | 2002–2012 | 100% | Inherited | Oversaw team after Al Lerner’s death, invested financially but tenure marked by instability, frequent leadership changes, and poor on-field performance. | Sold team in 2012 to Jimmy Haslam. |
| Jimmy & Dee Haslam (Haslam Family) | 2012–Present | ~99% (controlling ownership) | ~$1 billion | Stabilized ownership, invested in infrastructure, community, and operations. Oversaw playoff return in 2020, announced $2 billion retractable-roof stadium project in 2025. | Remain in control as of 2025, shaping long-term future. |
Mickey McBride Era (1944–1953)
Arthur B. “Mickey” McBride, a Cleveland taxi company owner and businessman, was awarded a franchise in the new All-America Football Conference (AAFC) in 1944. To lead the team, he hired Paul Brown, one of the most respected football minds of his time. Brown became both head coach and general manager, and his influence was so strong that the franchise took on his name.
Under McBride’s ownership, the Browns quickly became dominant. They won all four AAFC championships from 1946 to 1949, drawing record crowds and gaining national attention.
When the AAFC merged with the NFL in 1950, the Browns continued their success by winning the NFL championship in their first season. McBride eventually sold his stake in the early 1950s, but his vision and investment laid the foundation for one of football’s most storied franchises.
Art Modell Era (1961–1995)
Art Modell, a New York advertising executive, bought the Cleveland Browns in 1961 for about $4 million. Modell’s ownership spanned 35 years, one of the longest in NFL history. His tenure included the team’s 1964 NFL Championship, the last league title for the franchise before the Super Bowl era.
However, Modell’s leadership was controversial. Early on, he clashed with Paul Brown and dismissed him in 1963, a move that shocked fans and changed the franchise’s direction. In the decades that followed, Modell became known for financial mismanagement.
By the early 1990s, rising stadium costs and financial troubles led him to announce the relocation of the team to Baltimore in 1995. The decision sparked outrage across Cleveland, with fans and local leaders protesting the move. Legal battles followed, and as part of the settlement, the Browns’ name, history, and colors were preserved for the city.
The relocated franchise became the Baltimore Ravens, while Cleveland was promised a new team.
Lerner Family Era (1999–2012)
In 1999, the Browns were reactivated as an NFL expansion team after three seasons without football in Cleveland. Al Lerner, a businessman and philanthropist with strong Cleveland ties, purchased the team for $530 million, one of the highest prices ever paid for an NFL franchise at the time.
Al Lerner’s ownership restored football to Cleveland and gave fans hope for a fresh start. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2002, only three years after the team’s return.
Control of the franchise then shifted to his son, Randy Lerner. Randy’s ownership was often criticized for lacking a strong vision and for inconsistent management decisions. During his decade in charge, the Browns experienced frequent coaching changes and front office turnover, preventing long-term stability.
Though Randy invested in the team, the Browns remained one of the least successful franchises in terms of on-field performance. In 2012, he decided to sell the team, opening the door for new leadership.
Haslam Family Era (2012–Present)
Jimmy and Dee Haslam purchased the Cleveland Browns in 2012 for approximately $1 billion, marking a new chapter for the franchise. Jimmy Haslam, chairman of Pilot Flying J, became the controlling owner, while Dee Haslam took on an active co-ownership role. Their purchase was one of the highest-profile NFL transactions of the decade.
Under the Haslams, the Browns began investing heavily in both football operations and community initiatives. While the early years of their ownership were marked by instability with frequent coaching and general manager changes, the franchise eventually achieved progress.
In 2020, the Browns reached the playoffs for the first time since 2002, a significant milestone under the Haslams’ leadership.
Beyond football, the Haslams have focused on infrastructure and fan experience. In 2025, they announced a $2 billion project to build a new retractable-roof stadium in Brook Park, set to open by 2028.
This move is expected to secure the team’s long-term presence in Cleveland and significantly boost local economic development. With near-total control of the franchise, the Haslams continue to shape the Browns’ future both on and off the field.
Jimmy Haslam Net Worth
As of September 2025, Jimmy Haslam’s net worth is estimated at $8.7 billion. He is among the wealthiest NFL owners, a position he has achieved through decades of business leadership and strategic investments.
His fortune comes primarily from his role as chairman of Pilot Flying J, one of America’s largest privately owned companies, combined with his ownership stake in the Cleveland Browns and other investments. The rising value of NFL franchises has also significantly boosted his financial standing in recent years.
Pilot Flying J and Business Empire
Jimmy Haslam’s wealth is rooted in Pilot Flying J, the Knoxville-based truck stop and travel center chain founded by his father in 1958. The company has grown into a nationwide powerhouse with thousands of locations serving professional drivers and travelers.
In 2017, Berkshire Hathaway, led by Warren Buffett, purchased a significant stake in the business, raising its valuation to tens of billions of dollars. Even after Berkshire’s involvement, the Haslam family retains a major share and control, making Jimmy one of the most influential figures in the transportation and logistics sector.
Ownership of the Cleveland Browns
Haslam purchased the Cleveland Browns in 2012 for around $1 billion. Since then, the franchise’s value has skyrocketed to more than $4 billion in 2025, thanks to league-wide growth, rising media rights deals, and the team’s renewed competitiveness.
This increase in valuation represents a substantial portion of his net worth and underscores why NFL franchises are considered long-term growth assets. His control of the Browns has not only been a business venture but also a high-profile platform, elevating his status nationally.
Other Investments and Ventures
In addition to Pilot Flying J and the Browns, Jimmy Haslam and his family have stakes in other ventures, including community development projects, real estate, and philanthropic initiatives in Tennessee and Ohio. While these do not add significantly to his billionaire status compared to his two primary holdings, they showcase the diversified nature of his financial interests.
Dee Haslam’s Role and Wealth
Jimmy’s wife, Dee Haslam, plays an active role in ownership and management. She is also the CEO of RIVR Media, a television production company. Dee’s estimated net worth is around $1 billion, largely tied to the family’s sports and business assets. Her leadership extends beyond finances, as she has become a prominent voice in NFL ownership circles, focusing on community engagement and fan relations.
Combined Haslam Family Net Worth
Together, Jimmy and Dee Haslam’s combined net worth exceeds $14.4 billion as of September 2025. This immense financial power not only secures the Cleveland Browns’ future but also places the Haslam family in the upper tier of NFL ownership. Their influence extends across sports, logistics, and media, giving them a wide-ranging impact on business and culture alike.
Cleveland Browns Net Worth
As of September 2025, the Cleveland Browns are valued at $6.4 billion, placing them among the top half of NFL franchises by worth. This valuation represents a dramatic surge over the past decade, reflecting the financial power of the NFL as a whole and the Browns’ strategic developments under Jimmy and Dee Haslam’s ownership.
Here’s the historical net worth for the Cleveland Browns from 2015-25:
| Year | Franchise Valuation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $1.5 billion | Browns continued to struggle on the field, but NFL media rights and revenue sharing kept values rising. |
| 2016 | $1.9 billion | Modest growth as franchise stability under the Haslams began to take root. |
| 2017 | $2.3 billion | NFL-wide media deals and sponsorship growth boosted valuations. |
| 2018 | $2.6 billion | On-field improvements with Baker Mayfield’s arrival increased excitement and ticket sales. |
| 2019 | $2.9 billion | Fan engagement grew with rising expectations; NFL revenues climbed further. |
| 2020 | $3.2 billion | Playoff appearance and first postseason win since 1994 gave the franchise a major visibility boost. |
| 2021 | $3.6 billion | Continued strong league-wide revenue and brand growth despite mixed results. |
| 2022 | $4.0 billion | Expansion of digital and streaming deals increased valuations. |
| 2023 | $4.9 billion | NFL signed new long-term media agreements, pushing franchise values higher. |
| 2024 | $5.6 billion | Strong financial performance, anticipation of new stadium project fueled valuation growth. |
| 2025 | $6.4 billion | Browns announced $2 billion retractable-roof stadium; valuation surged, placing them in the upper-middle tier of NFL franchises. |
Growth Since Acquisition
When the Haslams bought the team in 2012 for around $1 billion, few expected such an impressive financial rise. In just over a decade, the Browns’ value has grown by more than 540%. Several factors drove this growth: record-breaking NFL media contracts, a surge in sponsorship revenues, and a revival of the Browns’ competitiveness.
The 2020 playoff run, though short-lived, reinvigorated the fan base and reinforced the Browns as a cornerstone franchise within the league.
Revenue Streams
The Browns’ $6.4 billion valuation is supported by diverse and expanding revenue streams:
- Media Rights: The NFL’s broadcast and streaming deals with networks like Fox, NBC, ESPN, and Amazon Prime deliver billions in revenue shared across all teams. This guarantees financial stability regardless of on-field performance.
- Ticket Sales and Stadium Income: Cleveland’s passionate “Dawg Pound” culture ensures strong attendance even in losing seasons. With the announcement of a $2 billion retractable-roof stadium project, future game-day revenue, premium seating, and events beyond football are expected to boost income.
- Merchandising and Licensing: Browns apparel and memorabilia remain top sellers, driven by both tradition and modern branding campaigns.
- Corporate Sponsorships: Deals with major regional and national sponsors provide steady income, and the new stadium is expected to attract even more high-value partnerships.
Market Position
Despite being based in a smaller media market, the Browns are among the most iconic NFL franchises. The loyalty of Cleveland fans is unmatched, with sellouts continuing through decades of ups and downs. This deep-rooted support, often described as one of the most passionate fan bases in sports, makes the Browns a valuable cultural and financial brand. The team’s identity, history, and “Dawg Pound” traditions enhance their appeal for sponsors and media partners alike.
Impact of the New Stadium
The Haslams’ announcement of a $2 billion retractable-roof stadium set for development in Cleveland is expected to elevate the Browns’ valuation even further. Beyond football, the stadium will host concerts, events, and possibly major sporting events like Super Bowls, diversifying revenue opportunities. Once completed, analysts predict the Browns could rank within the top 10 most valuable NFL franchises.
Comparison with Other NFL Teams
With a valuation of $6.4 billion, the Cleveland Browns sit in the upper-middle tier of NFL franchises in 2025.
The Dallas Cowboys remain the most valuable team in the league at around $10 billion, followed by the New England Patriots at roughly $8.6 billion, and the Los Angeles Rams at about $8.2 billion.
Teams like the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers also hold valuations above $7 billion.
While the Browns trail these mega-market franchises, they are significantly ahead of smaller-market peers such as the Cincinnati Bengals and Jacksonville Jaguars, which are valued between $4.5–5 billion. This positions Cleveland as one of the fastest-rising franchises, especially considering its relatively modest market size.
The announcement of the $2 billion new stadium in 2025 is expected to push their valuation even closer to the NFL’s top 10 in the coming years.
Long-Term Outlook
Given the current $6.4 billion valuation, the Browns are on track to reach or surpass $8 billion by the early 2030s. This projection is fueled by the league’s ever-expanding global footprint, enhanced digital broadcasting deals, and the Browns’ infrastructure upgrades. With unified ownership and growing financial muscle, the Browns’ net worth is positioned to rise steadily in the coming years.
Cleveland Browns Leadership
The Cleveland Browns operate under a family-owned structure, with Jimmy and Dee Haslam at the top as controlling owners. Day-to-day operations are handled by a front-office leadership team that covers football operations, business management, and community engagement. This division ensures the franchise is run both as a competitive football team and as a growing business enterprise.
Owners: Jimmy and Dee Haslam
Jimmy Haslam serves as the controlling owner and is deeply involved in strategic decisions, financial commitments, and major projects such as the $2 billion stadium plan announced in 2025.
Dee Haslam, co-owner, takes on a more active role in community programs, branding, and fan relations. Together, they provide stability and a long-term vision for the franchise.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Dave Jenkins currently serves as the team’s Chief Executive Officer. Having risen through the Browns’ financial and business operations departments, Jenkins now leads the organization’s non-football side.
His responsibilities include managing sponsorship deals, overseeing revenue streams, developing the new stadium project, and guiding the Browns’ overall business strategy. Under his leadership, the Browns have secured long-term corporate partnerships and created stronger ties between the franchise and the Cleveland business community.
Jenkins is also seen as the architect behind modernizing the team’s business operations, ensuring the Browns remain financially competitive with larger-market teams.
General Manager (GM)
Andrew Berry, at just 32 years old when he was appointed in 2020, became the youngest general manager in NFL history. Berry is known for his analytics-driven approach, making the Browns one of the most progressive franchises in roster construction. He manages the NFL Draft, free agency, salary cap negotiations, and long-term roster planning.
Berry has built a reputation for balancing financial discipline with aggressive talent acquisition, which has kept the Browns competitive in recent years. His partnership with head coach Kevin Stefanski has been highlighted as one of the most stable and collaborative GM-coach duos in the league.
Head Coach
Kevin Stefanski has been the head coach of the Browns since 2020. He made an immediate impact by leading the team to its first playoff victory since 1994 in his debut season, earning NFL Coach of the Year honors. Stefanski is known for his calm, detail-oriented leadership style and offensive expertise.
He emphasizes player accountability, discipline, and collaboration with Andrew Berry on roster decisions. Despite ups and downs since his breakout first season, Stefanski remains a central figure in the Browns’ long-term strategy and has been credited with creating a more professional and consistent team culture.
Community and Cultural Leadership
The Browns’ leadership extends beyond the field through Browns Give Back and other charitable initiatives. Dee Haslam has led efforts in education, youth development, and social justice reform across Northeast Ohio.
The franchise has also partnered with local schools and organizations to provide scholarships, improve facilities, and promote youth sports. This emphasis on social responsibility has helped strengthen the Browns’ reputation as more than just a football team, but as an institution deeply tied to the Cleveland community.
Their upcoming stadium project is also expected to revitalize parts of the city, reinforcing their long-term commitment to the region.
Conclusion
The Cleveland Browns have traveled a long journey from their founding in 1946 to their reactivation in 1999 and modern-day ownership under Jimmy and Dee Haslam. For fans asking who owns Cleveland Browns today, the answer lies with the Haslam family, who have not only provided financial resources but also helped stabilize the franchise’s identity. The Browns continue to grow in value and remain a cornerstone of Cleveland’s sports legacy.
FAQs
Who is the current owner of the Cleveland Browns?
The current owners of the Cleveland Browns are Jimmy and Dee Haslam, who have controlled the franchise since 2012. The team is privately owned through the Haslam family, with no minority investors.
Who is the majority owner of the Cleveland Browns?
Jimmy Haslam is the majority owner, holding about 70% of the team’s stake. He is the controlling voice in financial decisions, strategic planning, and executive hires. His wife, Dee Haslam, holds around 30% ownership and plays an active role in cultural leadership and community engagement.
Who were the original owners of the Cleveland Browns?
The original owner of the Cleveland Browns was Arthur B. “Mickey” McBride, who founded the franchise in 1944 when the team joined the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). McBride was a Cleveland businessman who hired Paul Brown as head coach, leading the team to immediate success.
What is the Cleveland Browns controversy?
The biggest controversy in Browns history came in 1995, when then-owner Art Modell announced that he was relocating the team to Baltimore. The decision outraged Cleveland fans and sparked lawsuits. As part of a settlement with the NFL, Modell took the roster to Baltimore to form the Ravens, but Cleveland kept the Browns’ name, history, and colors. The Browns were reactivated as an expansion franchise in 1999.
What’s the list of Cleveland Browns owners?
- Mickey McBride (1944–1953) – Original founder and owner.
- Art Modell (1961–1995) – Oversaw the franchise until its relocation.
- Al Lerner (1999–2002) – Purchased the reactivated expansion franchise.
- Randy Lerner (2002–2012) – Inherited team after his father’s death.
- Jimmy and Dee Haslam (2012–Present) – Current owners and operators.
What’s the Cleveland Browns’ owner’s net worth?
As of September 2025, Jimmy Haslam’s net worth is estimated at $8.7 billion. Dee Haslam’s personal wealth is estimated at around $1 billion, giving the Haslam family a combined net worth exceeding $9.7 billion.
How much did Jimmy Haslam pay for the Browns?
Jimmy Haslam purchased the Cleveland Browns in 2012 for approximately $1 billion. At the time, it was considered a high valuation, but the investment has since paid off, with the team now worth $6.4 billion in 2025.
How long has Jimmy Haslam owned the Browns?
Jimmy Haslam has owned the Browns since 2012, meaning he has been in control of the franchise for 13 years as of 2025. His tenure has included major organizational restructuring, a return to playoff competition in 2020, and the announcement of a new $2 billion stadium project in 2025.