Cleveland Browns: History, Achievements, and Team Overview

History

The team began play in 1946 as one of the founding members of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC). When the AAFC ceased operations, the Browns were among the clubs absorbed by the NFL in 1950. Following the 1995 season the franchise's personnel and organization moved to Baltimore and became the Baltimore Ravens, while the Browns’ name, colors and historical records were kept for Cleveland. A new Cleveland Browns franchise started play in the 1999 NFL season and carries the lineage of the original club.

Achievements

During the pre–Super Bowl era the Browns won four NFL championships. Their success in those decades established the team as one of the historically significant clubs in professional football.

• Four NFL championships (mid-20th century)

Rivalries and regional context

The Browns are one of two National Football League teams located in Ohio; their principal in-state rival is the Cincinnati Bengals. Matches against divisional opponents, including the relocated Baltimore franchise, have shaped much of the team's rivalries and regional identity.

Notable seasons

The Browns have experienced both championship years and difficult campaigns. They are one of two NFL teams to complete a season without a win, finishing 0–16 in 2017. The Detroit Lions are the other team to go 0–16, which they did in 2008.