The Cleveland Browns have issued a statement on the passing of former Browns owner Art Modell. The statement was short and to the point:

"The Cleveland Browns would like to extend their deepest condolences to the entire Modell family."

The issue of a having a "moment of silence" for Modell before Sunday's kick-off game against the Eagles has now surfaced. Aaron Goldhammer of 850 WKNR ESPN Cleveland said on the air this morning that he spoke to the Browns and that the organization was still deciding what to do.

Obviously, a moment of silence will not go well for anyone involved. The Dawg Pound will be fully lathered on Sunday, and the moment will be filled with anything but silence. The reaction is easily predictable and will just make the city look bad. It's a difficult situation, but I can't imagine the Browns will decide to honor Modell in any way before the game.

For more on Modell's passing, visit Dawgs By Nature.