In a season marked by challenges and unexpected turns, the Cleveland Browns currently hold a disappointing 3-10 record in their 2024 campaign, a stark contrast to the expectations that soared following strategic offseason moves. This lackluster performance has been shadowed by key injuries, leadership changes, and significant financial commitments that will shape the franchise's immediate future.
A Season of Setbacks and Adjustments
The Browns’ 2024 season took a severe hit with the loss of quarterback Deshaun Watson, who sustained a season-ending Achilles injury. This setback not only removed a vital component of the Browns' offensive strategy but also complicated the team's future planning. Since joining the Browns in 2022, Watson has played 19 games, posting a 2024 passer rating of 80.7. His absence has undoubtedly contributed to the team's subpar performance this season.
Despite these challenges, the franchise showed confidence in its leadership team by extending the contracts of head coach Kevin Stefanski and General Manager Andrew Berry during the offseason. This decision was made before the disappointing season unfolded, highlighting the organization’s long-term vision. However, the pressures of the current season led to changes on the coaching sidelines, with Mike Vrabel stepping into a more prominent role and Ken Dorsey taking over offensive play-calling duties from Stefanski starting Week 8.
Financial Implications and Future Decisions
The Browns are facing significant financial implications as they navigate these turbulent times. Considering the financial structure of Deshaun Watson's contract, releasing him post-June 1, 2025, would result in approximately $119 million in dead money. This financial burden underscores the need for careful planning as the Browns evaluate their options moving forward. Andrew Berry addressed Watson's situation, emphasizing, "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."
In addition to Watson, the Browns have to carefully navigate upcoming contract situations with other key players. Greg Newsome, entering the 2025 season on his fifth-year option, carries a cap hit of $13.37 million. Meanwhile, offensive lineman Jedrick Wills is poised to become an unrestricted free agent by March 2025. These looming decisions add layers of complexity to the Browns' offseason strategy, especially as they strive to maintain and rebuild a competitive roster.
Stars Amidst the Struggles
Amidst the struggles and uncertainties, Myles Garrett has continued to shine for the Browns, capturing the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. Garrett's accolades have been a testament to his skill and impact on the field, providing bright spots in an otherwise dim season. However, he too contributes an interesting subplot to the Browns’ offseason narrative with an $18.5 million roster bonus due early in the next league year, adding another financial decision for the team to tackle.
As Nick Chubb approaches the final year of his deal, his future with the Browns is also under consideration. The team will need to weigh the benefits of retaining his formidable talent against the demands of managing salary cap constraints. This decision will be crucial as the Browns synthesize their asset management with the goal of rebuilding a winning team.
The Browns' leadership group, now reinforced with contract security, is tasked with steering the franchise through this period of upheaval and developing a clear strategy that addresses the immediate financial challenges, player contract negotiations, and rebuilding a competitive team. The outcome of these decisions will have long-term implications for a franchise that continues to seek sustained success in the NFL.