While I have not seen official reports from the Browns or any television networks, I have received word from someone close to the situation that the Browns will soon be starring in what is described as a "Hard Knocks Type" reality series. 

The special is rumored to be airing on the Travel Channel and filming is scheduled to start next week. From what I understand, it will give viewers a "behind the scenes" look at the Browns on and off the field, very similar to the successful HBO series, Hard Knocks.

While this seemed a bit odd to me at first, especially mid-season, after a bit of investigation it made a little more sense. Haslam's wife, Dee, is CEO of RIVR Media which has produced very successful reality shows such as "Trading Spaces" and "Whale Wars" and continually pitches new shows to networks like HGTV, Animal Planet, and others. Whether this new special will be on the Travel Channel or some other cable network, the connection is clear. 

Given the current state of the Browns on and off the field, this could be very interesting. Just today the sale of the team to Jimmy Haslam III officially closed and I was told today was Haslam and Joe Banner's first official day at the facility. One day after former team President Mike Holmgren walked away from his duties. 

With Pat Shurmur's record (5-18), an 11 game losing streak that was snapped with a win over Cincinnati, and a 1-6 record, there is also rampant speculation that Shurmur will be the next to be on his way out of Berea. 

Even ignoring his poor record and questionable coaching, one could make a strong case that Jimmy Haslam III may be looking to bring in his own coach at the end of the season. If the Browns continue to underperform, however, that could come sooner than later. 

While much is uncertain as it relates to the Browns, one thing is abundantly clear. Jimmy Haslam III is the anti-Randy Lerner. This is just the next of an already long list of examples to that end.