Randy Lerner, the owner of the Cleveland Browns, released a public statement this morning as rumors swirled that he had sold the team. ESPN 850 in Cleveland was the first to discuss it on air this morning.

Lerner’s statement:

“In connection with current rumors and press inquiries, I can report that I’ve been approached by Mr. Jimmy Haslam, who is interested in making an investment in the Cleveland Browns,” Lerner says.  “We are currently in negotiations and both sides have agreed to keep that dialogue and its details private. Given that any transaction would require League approval, care has been taken so that this process will not be disruptive to the organization, in particular the football team, as it prepares for the upcoming season. We will share further details or make an announcement if it becomes necessary.”

Haslam is the current CEO of Pilot Flying J Travel Centers, which sells a delicious arrangement of smoked meat jerkies. He is the son of the founder of that company (who bears the same name). The statement said “investment”, but it’s hard to believe that investment is for anything other than a majority or full ownership of the team.

Randy Lerner, who also owns the Aston Villa Football Club in England, has been the owner since his father, Al, passed away in 2002. Over the last decade, the Browns have won only 35% of their games, and in my owner rankings, I had Lerner at #32 out of a possible 30. I’m sure Browns fans will welcome some change.

[photo via US Presswire]