You couldn't help but notice the symbolism of the moment as new Browns owner James Haslam III stood in front of a large gathering of reporters at a press conference Friday.
Haslam, 58, looked every bit the image of a NFL owner - finely dressed with a full head of well-groomed gray hair. He filled the room with words that were carefully conceived and delivered to get maximum effect.
Sitting in a far corner not far from the podium was current president Mike Holmgren, who had introduced Haslam a few minutes earlier. There was something striking about seeing Holmgren tucked away in a corner. He looked like a child that was told to spend some quiet time alone before he could speak again.
The scene spoke volumes for what could transpire when Haslam officially assumes controlling interest following the expected approval of NFL owners. Powerful men making huge investments in companies don't come in and kept the status quo. They shake things up, often times to the core.
Haslam refused to comment specifically about his plans, preferring instead to wait until he's in charge. The distant look on Holmgren's face may have said it all.
It's doubtful Holmgren will be with the team much longer, especially if former Philadelphia Eagles president Joe Banner joins the Haslam group. Having two presidents is like John Madden's description of having two quarterbacks you have none.
There's really no need for Holmgren to remain. He's almost three years into a five-year contract he signed in December of 2009. He's done his job by hiring general manager Tom Heckert and coach Pat Shurmur and perhaps landing a quarterback for the future in Brandon Weeden.
Holmgren's biggest job since camp opened was being the lead driver on a parade of motorcycles that raised money for a charitable cause last Saturday. Beyond that he keeps busy trying to lease loges and club seats, which seems a bit below his pay grade.
The remainder of Holmgren's contract is guaranteed at about $8 million a year and is on the tab of former owner Randy Lerner. Holmgren might as well leave and enjoy life somewhere along his beloved west coast.
Heckert's future is of more importance because of his role in molding the 53-man roster. As the point man during the draft and the main decision-maker for every waiver move or trade during the season, you could say that Heckert is the person that makes it all go.
Heckert had a working relationship with Banner during his time in Philadelphia. It's not known if Heckert left the Eagles on good terms with Banner, but most reports coming out of Philadelphia indicate that all went well between the two.
Shurmur's status doesn't change one bit. If the Browns go 4-12 again, he might be gone before Christmas. If they challenge 8-8 and show significant signs of improvement, he might stay.
No one can get an accurate read on Haslam at this time. He comes across as genuine and filled with respect and admiration for the history of the Browns, which dates back to 1946. By all accounts he's a fair and respected businessman whose family is deeply entrenched in the community of Knoxville, Tenn. His plan is to do the same in Cleveland.
But he is a billionaire, and you don't get that rich without taking chances and often making difficult decisions. Haslam spoke of Holmgren with the proper amount of reverence do a man with Hall of Fame credentials as a coach.
What else would you expect with Holmgren sitting no more than 15 feet from him? We'll find out what Haslam really thinks of all the men in charge of running the Browns once he settles in behind his desk.
Change is inevitable. Holmgren and Heckert might find out more about that real soon.