The Cleveland Browns concluded the 2023 season with an 11-6 record, marking their first playoff appearance since 2012. This past year’s playoff berth was only their third this century. Despite the 45-14 Wild Card round loss to the Texans, it was a remarkably successful season for the Browns.
Considering their injury struggles, if you had told any Browns fan in Week 1 that they’d reach the playoffs with Joe Flacco as their starting quarterback, amidst injuries to key players like offensive tackles Jedrick Wills and Jack Conklin, I doubt they would have believed you. Now, with the injury-plagued season behind them, the Cleveland Browns’ 2024 success hinges largely on quarterback Deshawn Watson.
The Browns have earned a reputation as an underrated team, with many considering them a sleeper pick for a deep postseason run. If this team can maintain good health and Deshawn Watson delivers as a serviceable, if not great, quarterback, they’ll be a formidable opponent. The Browns’ defense is undeniably one of the NFL’s best. As long as the offense avoids the turnover woes that plagued them in the latter half of the 2023 season, the defense will thrive, and the pass rush will consistently pressure opposing quarterbacks.
Let’s delve into a comprehensive analysis of the Browns’ prospects for the 2024 season.
Free Agency Moves: Key Additions and Departures
We’ll begin by examining the Browns’ free agency moves, highlighting their key signings and losses.
Their most significant signing was re-signing veteran edge rusher, Za’Darius Smith. Smith, who has aged gracefully, re-signing with Cleveland proved beneficial for both parties. He recorded an impressive 60 pressures and 20 quarterback hits last year, a testament to his enduring effectiveness. Securing him on a 2-year, $23 million deal was a steal for the Browns, bolstering their pass rush alongside Myles Garrett.
Another shrewd move was the addition of veteran linebacker Jordan Hicks. This signing is particularly noteworthy due to his potential synergy with Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah. Signing Hicks to a 2-year, $8 million contract, despite his age (32), is a low-risk, high-reward proposition, given his consistent high-level play throughout his career, including his recent stint in Minnesota.
A move that might not grab headlines but holds strategic value is the re-signing of veteran Shelby Harris. While not a flashy acquisition, Harris provides valuable experience and depth to the defensive line. In today’s NFL, defensive line depth is paramount, and Harris’s familiarity with the system adds to his worth.
One signing that has generated excitement is the acquisition of Jameis Winston as the backup quarterback. In a 17-game season, having a reliable backup is crucial. Winston’s experience and talent make him one of the league’s best backups, arguably surpassing some teams’ starters.
In terms of departures, the Browns’ losses in free agency include defensive tackle Jordan Elliott, linebacker Sione Takitaki, quarterback Joe Flacco, and tight end Harrison Bryant. Elliott, a former third-round pick, hadn’t quite lived up to expectations, making his production readily replaceable. Takitaki, while a solid linebacker, won’t leave a gaping hole in the Browns’ impressive defensive lineup.
The departure of Joe Flacco wasn’t unexpected, considering the potential for fan pressure to replace Watson if he were to struggle early in the season. The Browns’ decision to sign Winston suggests a desire for a clean break from the Flacco era.
Overall, the Browns navigated free agency strategically, making impactful signings with limited resources. The additions of Smith, Hicks, and Winston strengthen key areas and provide valuable depth.
A Dominant Defense Poised for Greatness
Heading into the 2024 season, the Browns’ defense has the potential to be the stingiest in the league, a key factor in their pursuit of success. While the “Browns are underrated” narrative might be tiresome for some, their defensive prowess cannot be overstated.
Last season provided a glimpse of their defensive potential, even amidst offensive struggles. The Week 2 matchup against the Steelers exemplifies this. Despite outgaining the Steelers by over 150 yards, dominating time of possession (over 35 minutes), and holding them from scoring within the Browns’ 20-yard line, Cleveland lost the game due to turnovers.
The Browns’ defense allowed a mere 255 yards of offense and even forced multiple turnovers. Yet, four turnovers by their offense, including a pick-six and a fumble returned for a touchdown, proved insurmountable. This game, while an extreme example, highlights the challenges the defense faced due to offensive miscues.
Joe Flacco’s eight interceptions on just 204 passing attempts, a concerning touchdown-to-interception ratio, further hampered the defense’s efforts. The defense was consistently put in precarious situations, undermining their overall effectiveness.
Despite these challenges, the Browns’ defense still shone. They led the league in passing yards allowed and ranked third in interceptions. This speaks volumes about their talent and potential when not consistently undermined by turnovers.
Myles Garrett, an undeniable superstar, anchors the defense. However, the secondary deserves equal praise. Denzel Ward, a three-time Pro Bowler, finally has a supporting cast worthy of his talent. Martin Emerson, a rising star, allowed no touchdowns and a passer rating of 45.3 when targeted last season. Greg Newsome II, the starting nickel corner, further solidifies this formidable unit.
Coupled with a potent pass rush, this secondary creates a no-fly zone for opposing offenses. The Browns’ defense boasts playmakers at every level, from Garrett and Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah at linebacker to the trio of shutdown corners.
Barring a repeat of last year’s turnover woes, the Browns’ defense is poised for a monstrous season. They have the potential to lead the league in points allowed per game, setting the stage for a successful campaign.
Offensive Outlook: Avoiding Turnovers and Finding Balance
For the Browns’ offense, the path to success in 2024 hinges on two critical factors: avoiding turnovers and establishing a more balanced attack. Last season’s injury woes, particularly on the offensive line, played a significant role in their offensive struggles. However, the front office has taken steps to address depth concerns, providing more security should injuries arise.
The most significant question mark surrounding the offense is the performance of quarterback Deshawn Watson. After a lengthy absence, his 2022 season provided a limited sample size, and his 2023 campaign was marred by injury. While a promising second half against the Ravens offers a glimmer of hope, it’s too early to make definitive judgments.
Watson’s success in 2024 is crucial for the Browns’ offense. He needs to demonstrate that he can regain his pre-suspension form and lead the team effectively. The Browns’ investment in Watson, both financially and in terms of draft capital, makes this a make-or-break season for him.
Fortunately, Watson has a strong supporting cast. Nick Chub, a dynamic running back, is poised for a bounce-back season after an injury-riddled 2023. Amari Cooper, a consistent 1,000-yard receiver, provides a reliable target. The addition of Elijah Moore adds another dimension to the passing game.
The key for the Browns’ offense is to play complementary football. Establishing the run with Chub will be crucial, taking pressure off Watson and creating more manageable down-and-distance situations. Additionally, minimizing turnovers and allowing the defense to thrive will be paramount.
If the Browns’ offense can consistently put up points, even without being spectacular, their defense gives them a chance to win every game. Their ceiling is high, but it hinges on Watson’s ability to return to form and the offense’s ability to play mistake-free football.
Rookie Impact: Minimal Expectations, Long-Term Potential
Unlike other teams, the Browns’ 2024 rookie class isn’t expected to make a significant immediate impact. This is largely due to the team’s overall talent and the lack of a first-round pick.
Their first selection, defensive tackle Siaki Ika, didn’t see extensive playing time in his rookie year. While he showed promise, it’s unlikely that Michael Hall will have a significantly different experience, given the depth on the defensive line.
Offensive lineman Dawand Jones impressed in limited action last year before succumbing to injury. However, with the return of Wills and Conklin, Jones’s role will likely be limited to a backup capacity.
The Browns’ other selections, including wide receiver Cedric Tillman and cornerback Cameron Mitchell, face an uphill battle for playing time due to the team’s depth at their respective positions.
While this rookie class may not contribute significantly in 2024, they represent valuable assets for the future. Their development will be crucial for the Browns’ long-term success.
Schedule Analysis: A Mix of Winnable Games and Tough Challenges
The Browns’ 2024 schedule presents a mix of winnable games and daunting challenges. Their opening stretch includes matchups against the Cowboys, Jaguars, Giants, Raiders, and Commanders. While not easy opponents, these games offer opportunities for the Browns to start the season strong.
The latter half of the schedule features tougher tests, with divisional matchups against the Bengals and Ravens, a Thursday night showdown against the Chiefs, and a Week 18 clash against the Dolphins. These games will likely determine the Browns’ playoff fate.
Overall, the Browns’ schedule is manageable, but their success hinges on their ability to navigate both the early-season tests and the late-season gauntlet. Their defense gives them a chance in every game, but the offense needs to hold up their end of the bargain.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Season for the Cleveland Browns
The 2024 season is pivotal for the Cleveland Browns. With a talented roster and a relatively manageable schedule, the pieces are in place for a deep playoff run. However, their success hinges on the performance of quarterback Deshawn Watson.
If Watson can regain his Pro Bowl form and the offense can avoid the turnover woes that plagued them in 2023, the Browns have the potential to contend for the AFC North title and make noise in the playoffs. Their elite defense will keep them in every game, but the offense needs to provide enough support.
This is a make-or-break season for Watson, and his performance will determine the fate of the Browns’ season. If he can deliver, Cleveland could be in for a special year.
