NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell talked about the Cleveland Browns and owner Jimmy Haslam. He spoke about the team’s new logo and its future in a competitive league.

But Goodell’s appearance Feb. 25 at the 101st annual Canton Regional Chamber of Commerce dinner wasn’t so much about football as it was the future. The Pro Football Hall of Fame Village project, which might bring a new stadium, convention center, four-star hotel, sports and entertainment complex and other facilities to the Hall’s campus in coming years, remains in the blueprint phase.

For the project to succeed, the Hall of Fame needs the NFL’s blessing and financial backing.

Goodell’s appearance alone signals his commitment to the Hall of Fame Village project. It’s also an indication that Pro Football Hall of Fame President and Executive Director David Baker has gotten the right people to listen at the right time; Goodell spent three hours mulling over plans for Hall of Fame Village before the dinner.

As the Hall embarks on the largest expansion project in its history, it’s critical to have the commissioner of the league in its corner. …

 

The (Canton) Repository