Changes Loom In Cleveland

First let me say I’m being very optimistic here.  What if the Cleveland Browns  win their last three games? They would be able to finish the 2009 season on a four game winning streak. That would be an unbelievable turn around after being 1-11. While that seems far fetched, their opponents in those games are at Kansas City(3-10), and Oakland(4-9) and Jacksonville(7-7) at home. It’s not impossible.

With the hiring of Cleveland’s new “czar” just around the corner, winning these final three games could be very important to all involved. Lets say Mike Holmgren gets the job. It would be hard for him to completely blow up a team that’s showing promise. A coaching staff that has a system in place that is starting to work. It would make Holmgren’s job a lot easier  with the foundation already in place. He could just oversee the continued building process while lending his years of experience as needed. Cleveland  has desperately needed that type of person for a long time.

If Holmgren, or whoever, takes the job, some changes are inevitable. The fewer changes that need to be made, the quicker the Browns organization will be able to realize their goal. While Eric Mangini has laid a foundation, I do think he needs help in  finishing the product. That’s where Holmgren could be invaluable. Cleveland needs to acquire some more players through the draft and free agency. That seems to be an area where Mangini needs help. Also he may need to be persuaded to bring in an experienced offensive coordinator. His loyalty to Brian Daboll has been commendable but has probably retarded the offense.

Cleveland has plenty of needs. They need upgraded at Safety, right tackle and cornerback to start with. A productive draft along with some good free agent signings is needed. Another play maker on offense would help. As for the coaching staff, I don’t think a lot of changes are needed but I’m sure there will be some. Finishing the season on a strong note might just save a lot of jobs. Some changes will come, I just hope they’re the right ones. A major overhaul is not needed.

article originally posted on http://www.nfltouchdown.com/