BEREA, Ohio — Country music star Brad Paisley is set to bring his world tour to Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls tonight, but before he entertains a legion of fans at the summer show, the roles were reversed on him.
On a visit to Cleveland Browns training camp for the second consecutive season, Paisley was the fan and not only stood on the sidelines to watch the drills, but also, spoke with several front-office executives, including owner Dee Haslam and general manager John Dorsey, before joining the post-practice huddle on the field.
Also, Paisley took time to pose for photos with fans and left them with some tough talk heading into the 2019 season from longtime Browns fan.
“The Steelers are scared,” Paisley said to a rousing round of applause.
Following practice, Browns coach Freddie Kitchens spoke with the media and expressed that he was a “big” fan of Paisley’s. Then, Kitchens shared some playful banter about singing “Southern Comfort Zone” with the multi-time Academy of Country Music and Grammy Award-winning performer.
“He wanted me to, but I’ve got to work tonight,” Kitchens said. “Not everybody can go play music for a living. Somebody’s got to actually work.”
Before his words were taken literally, Kitchens clarified that he was kidding.
“I’m being facetious in that,” Kitchens said with a laugh.
It was Paisley’s second appearance at Browns training camp in as many years, and last season, “Hard Knocks” cameras followed him on a tour of the legendary Quarterback RV, which was given to him by the now-starting quarterback Baker Mayfield.
“I’ve been a fan since third grade,” Paisley said during his appearance on “Hard Knocks.” “I was a Brian Sipe fan. That’s how far back I go. Go win some this year. I’m really rooting for you, and I can’t wait to see what you do, so win this for Cleveland. Go out there and go get ‘em.”
Paisley is the latest celebrity who has been in attendance at Browns practices, either during the offseason program or in the first eight days of training camp.
Along with Paisley, Cleveland Cavaliers power forward Larry Nance Jr. and World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc./NXT superstars Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae have been among the dignitaries to visit Browns camp in recent days.
