Based on the points made in this article, Modell really had no choice but to move the team to Baltimore. Sure, the team was profitable -- but the City of Baltimore and State of Maryland came up with a guaranteed revenue package for the team that would effectively enable the Modell estate to pay the estate tax on the value of the team when he eventually died. Pretty amazing, when you think about it, how much influence tax laws have on these sports franchise decisions.
Based on the points made in this article, Modell really had no choice but to move the team to Baltimore. Sure, the team was profitable -- but the City of Baltimore and State of Maryland came up with a guaranteed revenue package for the team that would effectively enable the Modell estate to pay the estate tax on the value of the team when he eventually died. Pretty amazing, when you think about it, how much influence tax laws have on these sports franchise decisions.
I recommend a fascinating book that deals with the same topic and other NFL business: "Glory for Sale" by Jon Morgan.