The Cleveland Browns are at a pivotal juncture as they seek to recalibrate their strategy and return to playoff contention by 2025. The franchise, which has experimented with a league-high 40 quarterbacks since its return to Cleveland in 1999, is once again in search of stability behind center. In a bid to overcome recent challenges, the Browns plan to bring in a veteran quarterback before the upcoming draft. This move is crucial for a team whose quarterback play was a significant issue in 2024, exacerbated by Deshaun Watson's season-ending injury and his record-low Total QBR.
The Browns' defense, once a formidable force, saw a marked decline in 2023, slipping to 23rd in yards per play and 16th in EPA per play after leading both categories in 2022. Injuries to key defensive contributors further compounded their struggles in 2024. Jim Schwartz, the team's defensive coordinator, emphasized the need for improvement in finishing plays, as tighter coverage needs to translate into tangible outcomes.
"The biggest thing has just been finishing at the ball." – Schwartz (Jim Schwartz)
"There's a lot of metrics that his coverage has been just as tight this year as last year, but there's a little better finish at the ball, so that's got to be a point of emphasis." – Schwartz (Jim Schwartz)
Offensively, the Browns face challenges with their wide receiver corps. With Elijah Moore recording career-low yards per reception and set to become a free agent, along with an unproven Cedric Tillman, the team is actively searching for another starter. The potential addition of a player like the New York Giants' Darius Slayton, known for his vertical threat capabilities, could alleviate pressure on existing talents such as Jerry Jeudy and David Njoku.
Special teams also present areas for improvement. While punter Corey Bojorquez stood out with commendable performances, the unit struggled overall. The Browns will need to secure a more consistent returner and enhance their coverage units. Kicker Dustin Hopkins provides some stability after achieving a career year in 2023, earning himself a three-year contract extension.
In the run-up to the draft, the Browns hold 12 picks, including four within the top 105 selections. This strategic positioning offers them ample opportunity to address multiple team needs effectively. The team’s decision-makers have already met with top prospect Shedeur Sanders at the Shrine Bowl, indicating their proactive approach to scouting potential talent.
"How that spot looks going into 2025, it's probably too early to tell." – Andrew Berry
Further complicating matters is the possibility of left guard Joel Bitonio's retirement. However, aside from this potential loss, the Browns are poised to retain the rest of their offensive line starters from 2024. This continuity could prove advantageous as they seek to rebuild and optimize their offensive strategies.
Myles Garrett's recent comments reflect the uncertainties surrounding the team’s immediate future and aspirations for success.
"Speaking with the management at the Browns, I don't feel like our future is aligned with winning right now." – Myles Garrett
Nevertheless, David Njoku remains optimistic about the team's prospects, underscoring the importance of securing a reliable quarterback to drive their efforts forward.
"I think we're close. We just need a healthy, good quarterback." – David Njoku
The Browns’ roadmap to playoff resurgence requires careful consideration of several factors: effective quarterback acquisition, bolstering defensive resilience, enhancing special teams performance, and fortifying their receiving corps. The potential impact of strategic draft selections and retaining key players will also play pivotal roles in shaping their journey.
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