Browns fans brace as Modell among finalists up for Hall of Fame

CLEVELAND -- The possible election of late Cleveland and Baltimore owner Art Modell to the Pro Football Hall of Fame has Browns fans on edge.

Modell is one of 15 finalists up for consideration on Saturday in New Orleans by a selection committee which will select between four and seven new members to be enshrined in Canton, Ohio, this summer. Coach Bill Parcells, former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo Jr., single-season sacks leader Michael Strahan and running back Jerome Bettis are among the other candidates.

While Modell is credited with helping the NFL's growth as an influential owner, Cleveland fans haven't forgiven him for moving the Browns to Baltimore in 1996. Modell died in September, and the Ravens have made their run to the Super Bowl this year wearing "Art" patched on their jerseys.