CLEVELAND — Rumors are swirling that the Cleveland Browns are on the verge of unveiling plans for a new domed stadium. However, there are some who believe it would be more practical for the team to focus on building a more effective offense or at the very least, revamping their quarterback situation.
Once again, the Browns faced challenges on Sunday as quarterback Deshaun Watson struggled to connect with his teammates, leading to a disappointing afternoon filled with costly penalties and a lack of scoring. The team is currently in search of both a clear offensive identity and points on the board. As of now, the Browns have yet to reach even 20 points in any game this season and are the only team in the NFL not to tally at least 300 offensive yards in a single contest.
During their latest setback, a 20-16 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Cleveland managed only three field goals and a special-teams touchdown. The Eagles’ fans expressed their frustration as their team grappled to secure a win against the Browns, who now sit at 1-5. A bright moment came in the form of Rodney McLeod’s scoop-and-score touchdown after an incredible block by Myles Garrett, who leaped over two Eagles linemen to stop a field goal attempt. Unfortunately, McLeod, who shares the team lead with two touchdowns, is a safety, indicating a serious issue on the offense.
Watson’s performance has also been underwhelming, as he has yet to eclipse 200 passing yards in any game during the current season. His hefty contract of $230 million is beginning to look like a significant misstep for Cleveland. After the loss, head coach Kevin Stefanski dismissed any rumors about benching Watson, asserting during a Zoom call on Monday that he still believes in Watson’s ability to lead the team. “I think Deshaun gives us the best chance to win,” Stefanski stated. “We need to play really good offensive football at his position and at every position to be successful on Sunday.”
Despite Stefanski’s loyalty, trust in his judgment wavers among fans as Watson’s performance has him ranked at or near the bottom in several statistical categories. His struggles extend beyond mere statistics; he seems unable to effectively read defenses when he’s not scrambling or being pressured. While he completed 11 of 12 passes for 122 yards in the second half against Philadelphia, he could not generate any game-defining scores.
Speculation surrounding the influence of team owner Jimmy Haslam looms over Watson’s consistent starting role, with some suggesting that he is being forced upon Stefanski. However, Stefanski maintains that he is making all football-related decisions. “We have a good dialogue with myself, (GM) Andrew (Berry), ownership, about all things that have to do with this team,” he remarked. “They’ve been nothing but supportive, and any football decision is mine.”
Last season, injuries forced the coach to use five different quarterbacks, yet he still led the team to the playoffs without Watson. It seems to be time for reconsideration, possibly bracing for another similar situation.
On a more positive note, while the passing game has faltered, the Browns managed to find some rhythm on the ground, finishing with 100 rushing yards. Although this isn’t particularly spectacular, given the injuries affecting the offensive line, any progress in this area is promising.
However, the team continues to be plagued by issues such as sacks and pre-snap penalties. Watson was taken down five times during the game, pushing Cleveland’s total sacks to a league-high of 31. Additionally, in a critical moment trailing 20-14 with less than four minutes to go, the Browns committed two false starts inside the Eagles’ ten-yard line, which hindered their chance at a potential touchdown and forced Stefanski to settle for a field goal instead.
As for player updates, there’s good news regarding star running back Nick Chubb who, after suffering a severe knee injury last season, is expected to make his return this week. His presence on the field should be a significant morale boost not just for the team, but for the fans as well.
Conversely, rookie guard Zak Zinter’s struggles led to his benching, only to be called back when center Nick Harris broke his leg. Zinter was flagged for a false start while trying to help the team score a crucial touchdown.
Injury news also weighs heavily on the Browns as Harris’s injury is compounded by the absence of starter Ethan Pocic due to a knee issue, and running back Jerome Ford is dealing with a hamstring problem, leaving him classified as “week to week.” Safety Grant Delpit is still in concussion protocol.
Key statistics speak volumes about the team’s performance; Cleveland has only one touchdown in their last 29 offensive possessions.
Looking ahead, the Browns will return home for their next game against the Cincinnati Bengals (2-4). There is a possibility that the stadium may not be filled to capacity, and it wouldn’t be surprising to hear chants of “We want Jameis!” before the game even kicks off.