Channel Cincinnati - NFL Commish Praises Mike Brown, Bengals

NFL Commish Praises Mike Brown, Bengals

Tagliabue: It Doesn't Happen Overnight

CINCINNATI -- When news broke that NFL Commissioner Paul Tagliabue was in town Tuesday to meet with Cincinnati Bengals owner Mike Brown, people were expecting harsh words and edicts that could be the catalyst for change and improvement in the organization.

Instead, he supported the efforts of Brown and his family to make the team competitive.

"They have their own philosophy, and that philosophy is time-tested," Tagliabue said. "They won two Super Bowls with that philosophy. Mike will be the first to tell you he's not satisfied with where the team is today. But that doesn't mean you have to re-invent yourself."

Tagliabue was in town for a speaking appearance at the Commercial Club and Commonwealth Club. He visited briefly with the Bengals owner and toured Paul Brown Stadium with team officials Monday afternoon.

After opening the room to reporters' questions, no one asked for impressions of the stadium. All of the questions were directed about Brown's competency as an owner.

Brown stood quietly on the side of the room, and looked visibly uncomfortable during questions attacking his abilities.

Tagliabue said that Bengals fans should look at former doormat teams like the Super Bowl champion St. Louis Rams and runner-up Tennessee Titans as examples of what's possible. However, he tempered potential dreams that a reversal of fortune could be in the immediate future here.

"It doesn't happen overnight," Tagliabue cautioned. "And it doesn't happen by waving a magic wand. It happens by getting good players (and) retaining them."

The Bengals possessed the NFL's worst record during the 1990s. Tagliabue joked that the Bengals haven't performed well since he became commissioner in 1990 and that it might be his fault.

Instead of blaming Brown for the poor record, Tagliabue cited tough competition from the league, unfortunate injuries and bad luck. He also praised Brown's management style.

"Mike represents in many ways what's the most potent thing about the NFL, which is an appreciation for tradition, and appreciation for continuity, but a willingness for change."

Off to an 0-6 start in the 2000 season, the Bengals were 52-108 during the '90s.