Cleveland Browns 2024 Preview

The Cleveland Browns are coming off an impressive 11-win season in 2023, but despite that success, they enter 2024 with an over/under win total set at 8.5. With a challenging schedule and the uncertainty surrounding Deshaun Watson‘s ability to return to his pre-suspension form, the Browns are one of the more intriguing teams to watch this season.

Let’s break down what to expect from the Browns in 2024.

Key Insights and Team Overview

The Browns have a mix of returning talent and new faces, aiming to build on last year’s success while addressing key areas of improvement. Here’s what you need to know:

Offensive Outlook

Deshaun Watson’s Make-or-Break Year:
- Inconsistent Performance: Watson returned to the starting role in 2023 and managed a 5-1 record before getting hurt, throwing for seven touchdowns and four interceptions. However, his 185 passing yards per game were underwhelming, and the Browns are banking on a much better performance in 2024.
- Backup Plan: Should Watson struggle or face injuries again, the Browns are better prepared with Jameis Winston as the new backup. Winston brings experience and a gunslinger mentality, which could provide a spark if needed.
Passing Game Weapons:
- Amari Cooper: Cooper was the Browns’ top target last year, recording over 1,200 yards and 9 touchdowns. He remains Watson’s primary weapon in the passing game.
- David Njoku: Njoku had a breakout year, earning a Pro Bowl nod with 81 catches for over 880 yards and six touchdowns. His connection with Watson will be crucial in the red zone.
- Jerry Jeudy Addition: The Browns replaced Donovan Peoples-Jones with Jerry Jeudy, who comes off a 750-yard season. Jeudy adds another reliable option to the receiving corps, which could help balance the offense.
Running Game and Offensive Line:
- Jerome Ford: With Nick Chubb expected to start the season on the sidelines, Ford takes the lead in the backfield. He showed promise last year, averaging 4.0 yards per carry with 800 rushing yards and 300 receiving yards.
- Offensive Line Continuity: The Browns’ offensive line struggled with injuries last year, particularly at tackle, where Jedrick Wills and Jack Conklin missed significant time. If healthy, this unit has the potential to be one of the league’s best, especially with all five starters returning.

Defensive Adjustments

Elite Secondary:
- Cornerback Trio: Cleveland’s secondary is anchored by one of the best cornerback trios in the league. Greg Newsome, Martin Emerson, and Denzel Ward combined to allow some of the lowest passer ratings in the NFL. Their ability to shut down opposing receivers is a key strength of this defense.
- Safety Play: Grant Delpit and Juan Thornhill return to stabilize the safety positions. Delpit had 80 tackles and a sack last season, while Thornhill hopes to stay healthy after missing six games in 2023.
Pass Rush Power:
- Myles Garrett: The reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Garrett led the Browns with 14 sacks and remains the heart of the defense. He’ll be joined again by Za’Darius Smith, who contributed 5.5 sacks last season, and a deep rotation that includes Alex Wright and Ogbo Okoronkwo.
- Defensive Line Depth: The Browns added Shelby Harris and second-round pick Mike Hall to bolster the interior line. With Dalvin Tomlinson anchoring the middle, the Browns should be stout against both the run and the pass.
Linebacker Consistency:
- Jordan Hicks Addition: Hicks brings veteran leadership and consistency, coming off a 107-tackle season with Minnesota. He’ll pair with Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah, who had a breakout year with over 100 tackles and three sacks.

Season Outlook

The Browns have the potential to be a playoff team again, but their success hinges largely on Deshaun Watson’s ability to return to form. Here’s a breakdown of their potential floor and ceiling for 2024:

Win Total Floor: 7 Wins
- Why? If Watson struggles and the offense turns the ball over as much as last season, the Browns could regress, especially with a challenging schedule that includes several tough road games. A 7-10 season is a realistic low point if things don’t click.
Win Total Ceiling: 11 Wins
- Why? If Watson plays at a high level and the defense continues to dominate, the Browns could easily surpass expectations and push for the AFC North title. An 11-6 record would reflect their talent level and ability to win close games in a tough division.

Final Thoughts

The Cleveland Browns are a team with high potential but also significant questions, particularly at the quarterback position. If Deshaun Watson can return to his pre-suspension form, the Browns could be one of the surprise teams of the 2024 season. However, they’ll need to stay healthy and minimize turnovers to reach their full potential.

Key Points Recap

Deshaun Watson needs to prove he can lead the Browns’ offense to consistent success.
Amari Cooper and David Njoku remain key playmakers, with Jerry Jeudy adding depth to the receiving corps.
The offensive line must stay healthy to give the Browns a chance to dominate on the ground and protect Watson.
Myles Garrett and the Browns’ secondary are the strengths of the defense, capable of shutting down opposing offenses.
Win total projection: 7 to 11 wins, depending on Watson’s performance and the team’s ability to stay healthy.

Browns fans, it’s time to see if this team can make the leap—2024 is shaping up to be a pivotal season in Cleveland!

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