NFL suspends Browns GM Ray Farmer 4 games over texting infraction, fines team $250K

Cleveland Browns general manager Ray Farmer has been suspended four games by the NFL for his role in the "Text-gate" scandal.

Farmer can't be involved in any club matters during his suspension, which begins at midnight on the Sunday preceding the Browns' first regular-season game. He's also prohibited from being at the team's offices, practice facility, or games.

The Browns didn't lose a draft pick over the infraction, but will have to pay a $250,000 fine.

"There was no evidence in the NFL's review that Browns ownership or any other team executives had knowledge of the prohibited conduct," NFL executive vice president of football operations Troy Vincent said in a statement. "Once the violation was discovered, Browns management implemented new processes to ensure future compliance."

Farmer admitted in February to violating the NFL's electronic device policy by texting coaches during games. He didn't reveal who he was texting, but it was reported the messages were sent to an assistant coach and team representative on the sideline and were related to quarterback play and use of personnel.

Farmer's texts were sent during multiple games and continued through Week 15, when quarterback Johnny Manziel made his first NFL start.

Browns head coach Mike Pettine admitted to being displeased with the texts, but said during the NFL owners meetings that he and Farmer had talked through the issue.

"We both feel like we're very much on the same page and we're moving forward to make this team better," Pettine said.

Owner Jimmy Haslam also expressed support for Farmer and said the team will accept any consequences for his actions. 

"Even though it's not a positive, it's not something I'm proud of, it's not a badge or something I'm wearing, but I'm definitely trying to take the positive out of it," Farmer said recently. "What did I learn? How am I better? And then how does this help me moving forward?"