Quick thoughts on introduction of Kokinis
Posted January 26th, 2009 by Luke Chandler
This morning the Browns introduced George Kokinis as the new general manager of the franchise. It was mostly a bland presser, but there was a few interesting thoughts on the matter.
- Team president Mike Keenan introduced Kokinis. Was it too much for owner Randy Lerner to be there? Or new head coach and former roommate Eric Mangini?
- A bit of clarification came from the two day visit he made. The Ravens team charter was late coming back from the AFC Championship Game in Pittsburgh, and they did not get in until 4 AM. Kokinis insisted on coming to Cleveland that day even though team officials were willing to reschedule. He arrived at noon that day, and then stayed another day overnight to finish up.
- In the hiring process, Kokinis mentioned that former Browns general manager Ernie Acorsi was part of the interviews.
- Kokinis said he's been "fortunate" to work around so many good coaches, and was very grateful towards Ozzie Newsome.
- He does not think there is a time-table in place to make the team a contender, they will take it one day at a time.
- Twice when asked about final roster say, Kokinis danced around the issue. He made sure to imply that both he and Mangini would need to come to a "consensus."
- The best answer of the day came about the quarterback situation. Kokinis gave a refreshing answer, where he said he would need to meet with coaches to establish what the system would be, and who would be the best fit for it.
- When asked about evaluating the current roster, he said that it was too early to evaluate.
- Finally, he said that in week to week preparations, he was heavily involved in getting a scouting report to the coaches.
In what will likely end up being an era of shrowded silence in Cleveland, Kokinis didn't give up too much. He didn't seem uncomfortable talking to the media, but he wasn't exactly Bob Barker. I think it's way too early to jump on board with him, or throw him over. Patience will be key.
