Last year, the Cleveland Browns managed to make the 2023 NFL playoffs, and the factors the team overcame are part of why general manager Andrew Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski were able to sign contract extensions this offseason.
Here’s a list of the injuries and issues the Browns overcame last season:
- Jack Conklin and Nick Chubb have missed most of the season.
- Deshaun Watson will miss more than half the season
- Jedrick Wills and Dawand Jones will finish the year on injured reserve.
- Five starting quarterbacks
- Worst passing percentage in the NFL
- Joe Flacco was excited after throwing eight interceptions in five regular season games.
- Dustin Hopkins will miss the final two games of the regular season and the playoffs
- Anthony Walker Jr. missed a total of six games, including the final five of the playoffs.
Despite all of this and more, Cleveland found a way to the playoffs.
With Watson back in the mix, most offseason predictions have focused on the negativity surrounding the team, but that’s why USA Today’s Touchdown Wire projections for the Browns in 2024 stand out.
Nick Chubb should be able to make this offensive line respectable, the two star edge rushers should continue to lead a great defense, and if Watson can make a comeback, this team could be one of the best in the league.
Predicted Record: 11-6
Interestingly, in the AFC North, the Baltimore Ravens are projected to finish the same, while the Cincinnati Bengals are projected to finish one game ahead (Pittsburgh Steelers article not yet published).
What do you think about the Browns’ 11-6 projection?
Share your thoughts in the comments, including your thoughts on three AFC North teams posting double-digit wins again this year.