Lerner was troubled by the e-mail situation, but said he understands Savage's frustration at the Browns' startling fall after just missing the playoffs in 2007.

"I was embarrassed, probably not unlike Phil was embarrassed," Lerner said.

If Savage does lose his job this season, it appears more and more that this e-mail will be one of the only things remembered from his time as Browns' GM. Sorry.

******

TONIGHT: Watch Sussman liveblog the Ball State game for Jason Whitlock's amusement.

TOMORROW: Well, think of something fun to do. It'll be a pretty relaxed day over here. I'm running "Deleted Scenes" tomorrow so it doesn't get lost in the Black Friday shuffle. There will be no Waxing Off this week, but it will be back next week with Weintraubian resiliency. If you, commenters, would like to share what you're thankful for, please send me an email with your commenter name and I 'll post them like all quicklink style. They can be sincere, sarcastic, obscene, etc. Do your best to entertain, as you always do. Let's get in the holiday spirit.

Thank you for your continued support of Deadspin.

Crennel says he understands Savage's frustration and spoke with him Thursday about the incident. Crennel says it's unfortunate that it happened, adding "in tough times, tough things happen."

So, ignore my cautious updates. And apologies to any Browns' interns who I may have implicated in the follow-up. But, honestly, you can almost understand the level of frustration that Browns' fans feel. What I can't understand is how a GM could fire off something like that to a random person who ultimately helps keep you employed — especially after a win. From now on, Phil, you probably should hire an intern to handle your email correspondence with fans.

Oh, and big ups to Cleveland Frowns for keeping everybody honest. You're doing God's work, sir.

Browns GM Savage Sent E-Mail Containing Expletive [AP]