CLEVELAND -- HBO is coming to Cleveland. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Cleveland Browns will be featured on the premium cable channel's annual summer series, 'Hard Knocks.'
Debuting in 2001, 'Hard Knocks' follows one NFL team each summer throughout its training camp journey. Although general manager John Dorsey had previously stated he didn't want his team to be featured on the show, the Browns failed to meet any of the exceptions required to turn it down had no other team volunteered to be showcased.
"I don't believe we're on Hard Knocks,'' Dorsey told WKNR 850 ESPN Cleveland last month. "I don't think there's anything good that comes out of Hard Knocks, but we'll see.''
Dorsey later added: "I can go either way, you guys. I mean, it's the way football is, and, you know, I'm OK with it either way."
This will mark the Browns' first time being featured on 'Hard Knocks.' Between the team coming off just the second 0-16 season in NFL history, the addition of No. 1 overall pick Baker Mayfield, newly acquired veterans Tyrod Taylor and Jarvis Landry and the retirement of All-Pro left tackle Joe Thomas, HBO should have no problem finding storylines to focus on during its time in Cleveland.
Last season, 'Hard Knocks' showcased the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Browns head coach Hue Jackson was previously featured on the show during his time as an assistant coach with the Cincinnati Bengals in 2013.
Per Schefter, an official announcement on the show is expected on Thursday.
