The Cleveland Browns got rid of the white facemasks in 2006, but evidence is stacking that they could be returning full-time in 2024.
The Browns moved to a grey facemask from 2006 to 2014, and have had a brown facemask since 2015. Using white facemasks as an alternate has been on the agenda for the Browns over the past two seasons, but now they may be trending toward returning to their pre-2006 look.
The first hint? The 2024 NFL draft hats came out and while they are all grey, the tint of the facemask is quite light.
Browns only have the graphite hat available at the moment. And that facemask looks awfully white … pic.twitter.com/zLaOKHINPK
— NFL Fashion Advice (@fashion_nfl) March 25, 2024
The second hint?
According to Uni Watch, helmet manufacturer Riddell has been notifying retailers of a change to the Browns’ primary helmet in 2024. The company later clarified that they meant the current stock of helmets would be outdated and a new design has not been cataloged yet. However, that is not necessarily a denial. A new helmet is coming in some form or fashion.
The third hint?
In the announcement of their newly earned marketing rights in Nigeria, the Browns displayed a white face in their social media blast.
It’s an honor to announce that we have been granted international marketing rights in Nigeria! 🇳🇬
We take great pride in expanding the Dawg Pound and we are thrilled to continue to grow the game in Africa! pic.twitter.com/KhAaHqRosB
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) March 25, 2024
In order to change facemasks, the Browns would first have to change their primary logo since it features a brown facemask. That process can take two years, so the timeline would add up as well.
Will we get new helmets on a full-time basis this season in Cleveland? It sure seems like it.