As everyone knows, the Cleveland Browns have been in the news this week as former coach Hue Jackson alleged that Jimmy Haslam paid him to tank games.
Haslam vehemently denied the story, and now Jackson seems to be sharing a different story as evidenced Friday night on CNN with Anderson Cooper.
Jackson was lobbying to be involved in Brian Flores’ lawsuit with the NFL in conjunction with Flores’ claim that the Dolphins engaged in a similar practice of losing to get higher draft picks.
What Jackson Said On Friday
Here is what Jackson told Anderson Cooper.
“No, I was never offered money like Brian (Flores) had mentioned. I think this is a totally different situation but has some similarities.”
First question to Hue Jackson on CNN just now.
“Hue were you offered money by Browns ownership to lose games”Hue: No I wasn’t, not quite like Brian Flores but…..
— kel (@kellkill1) February 5, 2022
This is the same person who made the tanking allegations and claimed to have proof that he has yet to produce.
He went on to “clarify” his position.
“When you talk about incentivizing a four-year plan that led to the team not being able to play as well, that people benefited off of that — that’s different. But at the same time, it has some of the same similarities to it.”
Jackson may be changing parts of the story, but he still alleges Haslam and the Browns were involved in wrongdoing that he has proof about.
When asked by Cooper as to why he has not shown his proof, Jackson said:
“Those things will come to light at the right time.”
What Jackson Said On Tuesday
Friday’s statements to Anderson Cooper are a far cry from the Tweets earlier in the week that set this firestorm in motion.
Hue Jackson appears to suggest he was paid by owner Jimmy Haslam to lose games while coaching the Browns.
Jackson went 3-36-1 in three seasons. pic.twitter.com/FpyoNGinir
— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) February 2, 2022
Jimmy Haslam’s Response To Jackson’s Claims On Thursday
While Jackson’s recounting of the events has changed, Browns’ owner Jimmy Haslam was crystal clear and unwavering in his response that Jackson was not telling the truth.
“He’s [Jackson’s] been masterful at pointing fingers but has never accepted any blame. I have accepted a ton of blame, and rightfully so.”
Browns fans hope this story exits the news cycle soon, but no one ever knows what Jackson will do or say next.
NEXT: Browns Nation News And Notes (2/5/22)
