'Isn't it hard to be a Browns fan?'
I have a problem. I am a Cleveland Browns fanatic.
I survived Red Right 88, the Drive, the Fumble, the poor draft picks, the moving of the team, etc. However, it is through this journey for my love of this team that I have become the president of the North Canton Browns Backers.
We meet for all away games at Walthers Twin Tavern. Everyone is invited to become a member free of charge and enjoy the season with us.
People ask me all the time, isn't it hard to be a Browns fan?
My answer is oftentimes yes. But, through all of the pain and suffering that us Browns fans have endured over the years it has created a special bond with me and this team. I will always fight and defend their honor.
This brings me to two important offseason topics that I would like to touch on ― our quarterbacks.
I will begin with Baker Mayfield. I have to admit I wasn't excited when we drafted him four years ago. I think it mostly had to do with him attempting to plant the Oklahoma flag in Columbus after beating Ohio State. However, he began to grow on me even though many believed he was too short and too slow.
I loved his enthusiasm and hustle. Baker was the ultimate underdog and quickly became a fan favorite. Things were looking up.
In his third year, he led us to the playoffs and we defeated Pittsburgh on the road. Then, things began to fall apart. The following season, Baker got hurt in week 2. He either refused to sit out or the coaching staff refused to let him sit.
Baker continued to play, but was never the same quarterback. We also had the whole Odell Beckham Jr. thing, but I won't even get into that.
Needless to say, Baker was never the same quarterback and the front office decided it was time to move on.
Well, on to DeShaun Watson. I know most people already have strong viewpoints on this signing. Some people believe he will be a great player and lead us to a Super Bowl and that's all that matters. Others believe the allegations are too overwhelming and cannot condone the signing let alone it being $230 million guaranteed.
I believe as Browns fans, we have to believe in our ownership. The Haslams' say they vetted DeShaun and the whole situation thoroughly.
Granted, there was some odd behavior on DeShaun's part. But, two grand juries declined to indict him on criminal charges. The players, coaching staff and ownership are standing behind him. I believe as Browns fans we have to as well.
I have no idea how things are going to turn out. But, I do know I will be there with my Browns Backers cheering them on.
Bark loud. Bark proud.
Go Dawgs!
Kathy Halter is president of the North Canton Browns Backers club.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Cleveland Browns fanatic Kathy Halter ready for 2022 season
