Cleveland Browns fans have expressed strong disapproval of assistant general manager Catherine Hickman's choice of attire during a press conference on Wednesday. Hickman appeared before the media in a grey sweatshirt emblazoned with the phrase "Los Angeles Made Me Do It," featuring rips and holes. This fashion choice has been labeled as unprofessional by a significant portion of the fanbase.
Critics took to social media platform X, formerly Twitter, to voice their discontent. One user stated, "This just shows how unserious this organization is. This is unacceptable attire for an assistant GM addressing the press." Another comment highlighted the perceived lack of professionalism: "Most GMs or assistant GMs wear a suit or team gear to work every day. A tacky ripped sweater and yoga pants is definitely below the bar of professional and acceptable work attire."
Beyond concerns about professionalism, many fans found Hickman's sweatshirt particularly inappropriate given the Browns' recent trade of star player Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. The timing and message of the sweatshirt were seen as insensitive by those upset by the trade.
"Wearing a sweatshirt saying 'Los Angeles Made Me Do It' after trading away one of the best players in franchise history to Los Angeles is… a choice," one fan commented. Others echoed this sentiment, with one noting, "That shirt is a choice, since they just traded away one of the best pass rushers in the league."
Meanwhile, the Browns organization has also faced scrutiny regarding quarterback Deshaun Watson. Watson was recently filmed interacting positively with fans, taking selfies and smiling, days after he characterized the same fan base as "disrespectful" and recalled instances where he was allegedly cheered when injured. Watson was met with boos from his own fans during a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, an experience he described as "personal" and "disrespectful."
Despite the controversy surrounding his comments, Watson was named the Browns' starting quarterback. In an apparent effort to mend relations, he engaged with fans before the team's final preseason game against the New England Patriots.
