The Cleveland Browns have officially handed the radio play-by-play microphone to Andrew Siciliano following the retirement of Jim Donovan, a fixture in the broadcast booth for 25 years. Donovan, a beloved figure in the community, stepped away to continue his fight against cancer, a battle that he has been openly tackling with the kind of bravery that mirrors the tenacity of the very athletes he's covered for decades.
Siciliano, who is no stranger to the booth or the Browns, having previously substituted for Donovan, brings 13 years of experience from the NFL Network, according to News 5 Cleveland, Browns Executive Vice President JW Johnson announced to elevate Siciliano on 92.3 The Fan this morning, subsequently confirming in a press release that the torch will indeed be passed on to the veteran announcer.
Siciliano's reputation precedes him as a thorough and passionate sports broadcaster. Both his on-and-off-the-field insights have been previously showcased on ESPN Cleveland's "Cleveland Browns Daily" show alongside media personalities Nathan Zegura and Beau Bishop. "We're looking forward to having his voice lead the Dawg Pound on the radio call during the 2024 season," said Johnson in a statement obtained by WKYC.
Siciliano expressed his respect and reluctance to step into Donovan's role under these circumstances. "I'm honored for the opportunity, but wish the circumstances were different," Siciliano told FOX8. "Like every Browns fan, I was stunned when I learned of Jim’s retirement last week. I know I have big shoes to fill." He added, "Jim’s an icon, an amazing man and an indelible part of this community". Siciliano will join forces with Senior Media Broadcaster, color commentator Nathan Zegura, sideline reporter, and three-time Super Bowl champion Je’Rod Cherry in a new-look Browns broadcast team.
The pairing of Siciliano's enthusiastic commentary style with Zegura's analytical prowess and Cherry's insights promises to bring a dynamic blend of energy and expertise to the Browns' broadcast as they move into the 2024 season. Fans and followers will undoubtedly tune in, albeit with nostalgia for Donovan's voice and anticipation for what Siciliano will have to bring to spice up Sundays in Cleveland.
