Browns' Pettine confirms NFL investigators visited team in texting probe

Cleveland Browns head coach Mike Pettine confirmed Thursday that NFL investigators have been to the team's facility as part of an investigation regarding in-game texting between Browns personnel and the coaching staff.

"The investigators came in here, I spoke with them,'' Pettine told assembled media. "When that's resolved, I'll be in a better situation to speak on it.''

Reports have surfaced that a high-ranking member of the Browns' personnel department was texting the sidelines about play calling during games, causing friction between the coaching staff and front office that may have led to offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan's departure.

Pettine addressed the "friction" on Thursday.

"Yeah, I know the word 'friction' was used and I think Ray (Farmer) used it (in interviews at the Senior Bowl),'' Pettine said. "I'd prefer to term that a little more 'healthy debate' than anything else. I think that's very overblown. I think a lot of it's natural."

The league is reviewing the matter and a fine is likely if the infraction is confirmed.