Former Ravens owner Art Modell has died at age 87

[Gramz]

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/8343621/former-ravens-owner-art-modell-dies-87

[BrentMc11]

I posted this in Status Updates, but not everyone reads there:

1961-2004 as the owner of the Cleveland Browns and the Baltimore Ravens (1996-2004) Fired two legendary coaches....Paul Brown in 1963 and Bill Belichick in 1995. While not the most beloved owner in league history, the longevity speaks for itself. RIP Art Modell.

Edited September 6, 2012 by BrentMc11

[southwest1]

Thank you for posting this Art Modell link Gramz. As Adam Shefter states in the video blog, Mr. Modell is to be remembered for the rise of Monday Night Football and the rise of the NFL on television, which today has led to lucrative marketing rights where the NFL makes the bulk of its money.

It does seem strange to think that Mr. Modell fired the defensive genius and HOF NFL coach Bill Belicheck. It just goes to show that even brilliant coaches can't win without talent on the football field.

Thank you Art Modell for expanding this great game, hiring Ozzie Newsome, and bringing the Lombardi Trophy home to Baltimore in 2000.

On their own Ravens website:

http://www.baltimoreravens.com/videos/videos/Tribute-To-Art-Modell-Arts-43-Years-In-The-NFL/9d64fb80-931c-4023-bede-981914c38461

[shakedownstreet]

they're showing a really nice tribute on nfl network. i especially liked where he said he still loves, and always will love the fans from cleveland, despite all the hateful things that were said about him. it wasn't his fault he had to move the team that was facing bankruptcy due to the lack of a lucrative stadium deal. it's a lot like what happened with robert irsay's colts and baltimore's city counsel

[Gavin]

May he rest in peace and his family get through this tough time, a pioneer in football a true legend

[Andy]

Very revolutionizing person, may he rest in peace.

[jvan1973]

I doubt they are mourning in cleveland even though the city really left him no choice but to move. much like baltimore didn't leave bob irsay much choice.. if it were not for art modell the way we watch and enjoy the nfl would be much different