Cleveland Browns general managers have traditionally held press conferences, answering questions from the media during the team's bye week. The team's current general manager, Andrew Berry, has carried on that tradition to this point, but has opted out of it this year. While this is hardly the end of the world, it's a misstep by Berry and a wasted opportunity.
If there is an extraordinary circumstance, then this decision is more understandable, but even that should only delay the timing of the press conference. It shouldn't cancel it entirely. Berry should be out there to answer what would be some undoubtedly uncomfortable questions as the team currently sits 2-6. The explanation coming out of Berea is that head coach Kevin Stefanski is speaking for both of them. That's unsatisfactory.
Some are calling Berry a coward. Critics are using this as an excuse to suggest there is dissention or dysfunction within the organization.
That's one of the reasons this is a mistake. That vacuum is going to be filled. If Berry isn't going to talk, there are plenty of talking heads that are more than happy to speak for him, the majority of which will not be charitable.
Undoubtedly, some element of this press conference would include questions trying to either find or otherwise create separation between Berry and Stefanski. But Berry is a grown adult in addition to being an excellent communicator. He can deal with it.
It would allow Berry to put an end to some of the ridiculous speculation around this team. For example, Berry could include the topic of Shedeur Sanders in his opening statement. He could simply stomp out the idea that Dillon Gabriel is Stefanski's guy and Sanders is his. He could note his support for Stefanski as the head coach and being the person who has the final say on who should play for this team.