Columbus officials consider new complex to host Browns training camp
An estimated 70,000 fans will be on-hand Friday night at Ohio Stadium to watch the Cleveland Browns take on the Cleveland Browns in the team’s Orange and Brown Scrimmage. As fun and exciting as it will be to see those NFL players on the field in the Horseshoe, Columbus officials would like to see those guys in town more often.
Talks have been going on for some time between city leaders and the club about the possibility of hosting Browns training camp in Columbus. The city would love to lock the Browns in for a five- or ten-year deal to have at least part of their camp here in the capital city. One of the big questions has to do with where exactly that would be. Talk right now is centered on the building of a new multi-purpose facility to host Browns activities and possibly youth sports as well. The thought is that this complex would be paid for with a mix of public and private money, with the team moving in prior to the 2017 season.
As for location, there is talk that it would be placed near to MAPFRE stadium (home of the Columbus Crew SC). Proximity to the Expo Center and fairgrounds complicates that notion because of the scheduling overlap between training camp and the Ohio State Fair. (Even the Crew SC tries to avoid hosting home games during the fair.)
There are many details to be worked out if an agreement can even be reached. And any announcement is likely at least six months away.
Imagine the possibilities though. If we were to secure a deal to host Cleveland training camp for ten years, we could see as many as 15 to 20 different Browns starting quarterbacks come through town. (jj)
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