NFL Says It Will Investigate Browns’ Tavern Visits

The National Football League security office said it will investigate a published report that several Cleveland Browns players have frequented a tavern run by a man convicted of tax evasion in 1984.

The Cleveland Plain Dealer reported Thursday that Ross Vecchio, who runs Vecchio’s Sports Lounge and Restaurant, was convicted of tax evasion after not reporting cash he allegedly skimmed from bingo games.

Cleveland nose tackle Dave Puzzuoli has also been paid $200 each time he appeared at Vecchio’s during Monday Night Football promotions, and Warren Welsh, NFL security director, said he is concerned about the arrangement.