The Cleveland Browns faced a challenging 2024 season, ranking 28th in total offense and 32nd in scoring. The team grappled with instability at the quarterback position, shuffling through four different quarterbacks throughout the season. This inconsistency contributed significantly to their struggles on the field. Additionally, star running back Nick Chubb recorded career lows in several key performance metrics before a broken foot in Week 15 prematurely ended his season.
The Browns' offensive line, once a cornerstone of the team's strength, faltered significantly in 2024. They allowed the second-most sacks in the NFL, impacting both quarterback protection and the team's ability to establish a successful running game. Despite these challenges, the Browns remain optimistic about the future with most of their starting offensive line under contract for the 2025 season. They have already taken steps to address their issues by hiring Mike Bloomgren, former University of Rice head coach, to replace Andy Dickerson as the new offensive line coach.
Nick Chubb's performance was another concern for the Browns. Returning from a serious knee injury that limited him to just two games in 2023 and sidelined him for the first six games of 2024, Chubb struggled to regain his Pro Bowl form. His yards per carry, yards after contact per rush, and percentage of carries gaining at least 10 yards hit career lows. Despite these setbacks, General Manager Andrew Berry expressed confidence in Chubb’s future contributions.
"We love Nick. He's going to be a ring of honor player for us, and we know that," said Andrew Berry.
The Browns' rushing game ranked 29th in yards per game and 22nd in yards before contact per rush, underscoring the need for improvement. The team's quarterbacks also struggled with decision-making, further complicating their offensive challenges.
Andrew Berry acknowledged the critical importance of stability at the quarterback position, which remains a top priority for the offseason.
"I think it probably goes without saying that to reach that level of consistency, we have to have consistent availability and consistent performance at the QB position as well," Berry stated.
The Browns are expected to explore various options in both free agency and the draft to revamp their quarterback room for the upcoming season. Berry has already begun scouting quarterbacks extensively, with plans to intensify efforts during college all-star events and the NFL scouting combine in February.
"We understand how important the quarterback position is and that's obviously going to be a primary goal as we enter the offseason," Berry emphasized.
Despite the challenges faced, the Browns have shown a knack for acquiring veteran wide receivers through strategic trades over recent years. Players like Jeudy, Moore, and Amari Cooper have bolstered their receiving corps, providing some stability amidst other offensive struggles.
The Browns' offensive line regression was also a point of concern.
"We didn't play as consistently up front as we're accustomed to doing," Berry noted.
With most of their starting offensive line under contract for next season, there's hope that continuity and new coaching can restore their previous level of performance.
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