CLEVELAND — Myles Garrett found himself at a loss for words following yet another setback for the Browns. As the team trudges through a season marred by disappointment, it appears that hope is dwindling.
The Cleveland Browns faced a crushing 27-10 defeat against the Los Angeles Chargers, leaving them with a disheartening 2-7 record as they approach their bye week. The team’s struggles were magnified by significant communication errors in the secondary, leading to two long touchdown throws by Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert. Just a week prior, a surprising victory over the Baltimore Ravens reignited playoff aspirations, but now those dreams seem far-fetched.
“It’s tough,” noted Garrett, who impressive displays included three sacks over a span of just four plays in the first half. “We beat ourselves a lot of the game. Don’t take anything away from them. They made the plays they needed to make — big ones downfield, and they capitalized on our mistakes. Kudos to them for being in the right position. We simply need to be better and smarter.”
During the first half, Cleveland’s defensive backs twice allowed Chargers receiver to exploit gaps in the coverage, resulting in wide-open touchdowns. Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward and safety Juan Thornhill appeared to be out of sync, leading to these critical breakdowns.
“You can put it all on me,” Ward said following the game after having cleared concussion protocol just a day earlier. “They were both blown coverages. They were easy throws.”
While Thornhill acknowledged Ward’s acceptance of responsibility, he emphasized that the issues were broader than just miscommunication between the two. “It’s not all on Denzel,” he stated.
These defensive lapses left the Browns with a daunting 17-point deficit at halftime, a situation far too difficult for quarterback Jameis Winston to navigate. Despite having thrown for 334 yards and three touchdowns the previous week, Winston struggled considerably, throwing three interceptions in the second half and enduring six sacks.
The Browns’ offensive troubles were evident from the outset, registering only 57 yards in the first half. Coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that there would be no quarterback changes for the time being, reaffirming his support for Winston. “Yes,” he said clarifying that Winston remains his starter. “These are the types of things we have to improve on as a team.”
Winston also shared his perspective on the bye week offering a chance for reflection. “I remain hopeful,” he expressed. “I still believe in our team and know the potential we hold. The main focus is on eliminating mistakes that hurt us. I’ve had my share, and we need accountability. A week to regroup will be beneficial.”
With eight games remaining in a season that started with high expectations, there is speculation that general manager Andrew Berry may begin to look toward the future and possible trades ahead of the Tuesday deadline. End Za’Darius Smith’s name has surfaced in potential discussions, particularly with the Detroit Lions in search of reinforcements following an injury to Aidan Hutchinson.
Garrett, however, dismissed rumors regarding potential trades and remained focused on the task at hand. “I don’t pay attention to trade talk,” he stated. “My priority is getting this team back on track and ensuring we stay united. Anything said outside this locker room doesn’t concern me.”
Amidst mounting losses, Garrett has continued to maintain a positive mindset. He noted that personal accomplishments do little to alleviate the frustration of losing. “I’d rather go without sacks if it means winning,” he said. “Stats are just numbers, but I’d prefer victory over anything else. It’s incredibly frustrating.”