Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar has been removed as a contributor to the franchise’s radio network.
“I was informed by the Browns that my services are no longer desired or needed,” Kosar tweeted Sunday morning. “I will not be doing todays radio program. I am shocked (and) disappointed.”
On Twitter, Kosar claimed he placed the first legal bet in Ohio. The longtime Brown bet $19,000 on the Browns season finale. Sources told Cleveland.com the bet was the reason for the dismissal. Kosar claimed he would donate any winnings associated with the bet to charity.
The NFL has enacted rules pertaining to employees of league teams betting on games their franchise is participating in, and Kosar broke those league rules.
On Sunday evening, the Browns addressed the situation with a statement.
“Earlier this week we notified Bernie, that per league policy, we were required to remove him from our pregame radio coverage for the season finale after he violated the NFL gambling policy by placing a bet on an NFL game. We understand what Bernie means to this community and our history but as team contracted personnel hired to provide content on our media platforms, his bet was a violation of NFL rules and we must adhere to all NFL policy.”
Kosar has been a longtime contributor to franchise radio program Cleveland Browns Daily, as well as the team’s pregame show. In the past, Kosar has also worked as the television analyst for the team’s preseason contests.
