In a prepared statement, Browns President Mike Keenan said: "After careful consideration, we decided not to change our ticket pricing for the upcoming season. We hope that this, along with the introduction of new payment options, will ensure an affordable product and provide our fans with greater flexibility when they purchase their 2009 season tickets."

Because of the sagging economy, the NFL recommended to individual clubs not to raise ticket prices this year. At the Super Bowl, Commissioner Roger Goodell said that about 28 of the 32 teams intended to freeze prices.

The Browns have the lowest ticket prices in the AFC North and their average ticket price now ranks 31st out of 32 teams, the club said.

The Browns were one of 25 teams that raised prices in 2008. Teams generally don't raise prices two years in a row.

The Cincinnati Bengals raised prices in 2008 and will not have an increase in 2009. The Baltimore Ravens recently announced their first price increase since 2006, with increases ranging from $5 to $15. The Super Bowl champion Pittsburgh Steelers had a slight increase in 2008, and have not yet announced 2009 ticket prices.

Browns tickets range from $32 to $85. That does not include the cost of a personal seat license, which is required for all tickets except single-game and Family Zone seats in the upper level of Cleveland Browns Stadium and for the Dawg Pound, which is sold out.

Browns season ticket holders received renewal invoices this week. Payments are due May 1 - a month later than last year's deadline.

The Browns also are offering season ticket holders a series of flexible payment options and early renewal rewards, the club said. First-time season ticket buyers can also use payment options.

The Browns' 2009 regular-season schedule features games against San Diego, Oakland, Jacksonville, Minnesota and Green Bay, besides AFC North rivals Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and Baltimore.

The exhibition schedule, which usually includes two home games, will be announced at a later date.

To reach this Plain Dealer reporter: tgrossi@plaind.com, 216-999-4670