In a monumental and emotional moment for Cleveland sports fans, the Cleveland Browns have officially announced that franchise legend Joe Thomas is returning to the organization—this time, not as a player, but as a co-owner.
Thomas, widely regarded as one of the greatest offensive linemen in NFL history, will join the Browns’ ownership group in 2025 alongside current owners Jimmy and Dee Haslam. The news marks a historic chapter in the team’s evolution and deepens the connection between the franchise and one of its most iconic figures.
“It’s an incredible honor to return to the Browns organization in this new role,” Thomas said in a press release. “Cleveland has always been my home. I’ve bled brown and orange for over a decade on the field, and now I’m excited to contribute to our future from the front office.”
Thomas, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023, played 11 seasons for the Browns from 2007 to 2017. Despite playing during a turbulent era for the team, his loyalty, leadership, and unmatched durability—starting 167 consecutive games—earned him a place in fans’ hearts and NFL history.
Jimmy and Dee Haslam, who have owned the Browns since 2012, welcomed Thomas back with open arms. “Joe’s commitment to excellence, his love for this city, and his unmatched football knowledge make him a perfect partner,” said Dee Haslam. “We are thrilled to have him join us as we work toward building a championship team.”
Sources close to the organization say Thomas will take an active role in both football operations and community outreach, leveraging his experience on the field and his close ties to the Cleveland area.
Fans and analysts alike are celebrating the move as a symbol of hope and continuity for the franchise. With a former player of Thomas’s caliber stepping into ownership, the Browns are signaling a new era—one rooted in tradition, but with an eye toward innovation and sustained success.
More details about Thomas’s specific responsibilities and potential influence on team strategy are expected to emerge in the coming weeks.
