Cleveland Browns: A Season Marred by Challenges and Changes
The 2024 season has been a turbulent one for the Cleveland Browns, culminating in a disappointing 3-10 record thus far. This season has been characterized by significant challenges, unexpected transitions, and strategic shifts both on and off the field.
One of the most dramatic setbacks came as the Browns' star quarterback, Deshaun Watson, suffered a season-ending Achilles injury. Watson, who joined the Browns in 2022, has been a central figure on the team, playing in 19 games since his acquisition. Despite a passer rating of 80.7 for the season, Watson's on-field contributions were cut short, forcing the Browns to reevaluate their strategies moving forward.
General Manager Andrew Berry commented on the situation, emphasizing the team's priority on Watson’s health: "Really our focus with Deshaun—I would say for any player with a season-ending injury and a major injury—is first and foremost with the recovery and to make sure he gets healthy from the Achilles injury."
Adding another layer of complexity to the Browns’ situation is the financial implication of Watson's contract. Releasing him post-June 1, 2025, would result in approximately $119 million in dead money, a daunting figure that could significantly impact the team’s financial strategy.
The 2024 offseason saw both head coach Kevin Stefanski and General Manager Andrew Berry committing to the franchise's future through contract extensions. Despite the difficult start to the season, their leadership remains integral as the Browns navigate this challenging period. Yet, in a bid to potentially reshuffle their fortunes, Ken Dorsey assumed the offensive play-calling duties from Stefanski in Week 8.
Amidst these strategic changes, Mike Vrabel has transitioned to a more prominent role on the sidelines, contributing his expertise and experience to a team striving for stability and improvement. These changes signify a broader attempt by the franchise to recalibrate and address the current underperformance.
Looking toward the future, the Browns have several critical roster decisions to make. Greg Newsome is entering the 2025 season with a $13.37 million cap hit on his fifth-year option. Meanwhile, offensive tackle Jedrick Wills is set to become an unrestricted free agent by March 2025, adding urgency to contract discussions. Similarly, star running back Nick Chubb is approaching the final year of his contract, making the coming months crucial for long-term planning.
However, it hasn't been all challenges and complications for the Browns. In a bright spot amidst the struggles, Myles Garrett emerged as the NFL Defensive Player of the Year, a testament to his undeniable talent and impact on the field. Garrett’s performance remains a cornerstone for the Browns' defense, though his $18.5 million roster bonus due early in the next league year will require careful management from the front office.
Despite the tumultuous season, the Browns remain committed to building a competitive team. The extensions offered to Stefanski and Berry indicate that the leadership has a long-term vision for the franchise. While the 2024 season may not be remembered for its successes on the field, the groundwork is being laid for what the team hopes will be a more fruitful and stable future.
The Cleveland Browns have a steep hill to climb, but they are committed to facing these challenges head-on. With strategic leadership, the hope for a healthy Deshaun Watson's return, and stars like Garrett continuing to shine, there remains room for optimism as the organization seeks to reclaim its competitive edge. The road to recovery and resurgence might be long, but the Browns are resolute in their pursuit of it.