Joe Thomas, a Hall of Fame left tackle who spent his entire 11-year career with the Cleveland Browns, expressed deep frustration over the team’s disappointing 2024 season. Despite entering the year with Super Bowl aspirations, the Browns currently sit at 2-7, with fans shocked by the team’s poor performance.

Thomas highlighted a lack of clear direction amidst financial implications tied to quarterback Deshaun Watson’s massive contract, as the team struggles to exceed expectations built from their playoff push last year. He fears the Browns may have to consider major changes, but the path ahead remains unclear.

 

By the Numbers
The Browns’ record stands at 2-7 this season.
Deshaun Watson has played just 19 games since signing a five-year, $230 million contract in March 2022.
Yes, But

While Thomas’s Super Bowl expectations may seem exaggerated, many analysts agree that the Browns’ roster and last season’s performance warranted optimism. Several key players enjoyed individual accolades, yet the team’s failure to capitalize on these developments raises questions about their strategy and execution.

 

State of Play
The Browns have traded away notable players, including Amari Cooper and Za’Darius Smith, signifying a shift in focus for the remainder of the season.

Jameis Winston is expected to take over as the starting quarterback after Watson’s injury.
What’s Next
As the season unfolds, the Browns may need to reassess their roster strategy and consider either a rebuild or adjustments to restore competitive legitimacy. Key decisions regarding Watson’s future with the team will dictate the trajectory for upcoming seasons.

 

Bottom Line
Joe Thomas’s comments underline a critical juncture for the Browns; frustration is palpable among fans and former players alike. With a struggling performance and uncertain future direction, major changes may be inevitable for a team that once fostered Super Bowl hopes.

 

The Cleveland Browns are exploring options to replace Deshaun Watson, with recent reports suggesting Aaron Rodgers may become available. After a disappointing stint with the New York Jets, where he struggled with injuries and a troubling performance, his potential release could open the door for the Browns to sign the four-time MVP.

 

Watson’s financial burden, with a $73 million cap hit for the next two seasons, makes Rodgers a more appealing and cost-effective alternative, likely running between $5-$10 million for the year. The Browns, eager to revitalize their season, could see acquiring Rodgers as a way to turn the page on the Watson saga.

By the Numbers
Aaron Rodgers has thrown for over 2,400 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in 11 games this season.
Deshaun Watson carries a salary cap hit of $73 million per season for the next two years.
State of Play

The Jets hold a 3-8 record, indicating a lost season, as they may opt to bench or place Rodgers on injured reserve.
Rodgers, turning 41 soon, has strained relations with Jets management and seeks to continue playing beyond this season.
What’s Next

If Rodgers is released, the Browns may need to act quickly to secure him as a replacement for Watson, revitalizing their offense and attracting fan support. As the season progresses, this decision could determine the team’s trajectory for the next year.

 

Bottom Line
The Browns have a critical opportunity to move on from Deshaun Watson and potentially acquire Aaron Rodgers, offering a fresh start with a proven quarterback. This shift could restore hope for fans and elevate the team’s competitive stance in the league.

 

The Cleveland Browns are contemplating their future at quarterback, especially after the New York Giants released Daniel Jones. With Jameis Winston currently at the helm and Deshaun Watson sidelined due to an Achilles injury, there is uncertainty surrounding the team’s quarterbacking options.

Browns coach Kevin Stefanski dismissed speculation about Jones, maintaining a tight-lipped approach typical of his management style. However, general manager Andrew Berry has a history of embracing risks, which might lead to consideration of Jones as a potential signing.

 

By the Numbers
Daniel Jones went 22-44-1 as a starter for the Giants.

 

In 2022, he passed for 3,205 yards, 15 touchdowns, and five interceptions.
Jameis Winston has a 2-2 record as a starter for the Browns, with 1,266 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and four interceptions.
Deshaun Watson was 1-6 as a starter this season, totaling 1,148 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions.
Yes, But

Despite the option of signing Jones, the Browns are currently experiencing positive momentum with Winston as their starter. The team’s performance under Winston shows potential, even as Watson’s future remains uncertain amid criticism. Thus, there is a risk in disrupting any progress made with Winston at the helm.

 

State of Play
The Browns hold a mixed record this season, with ongoing discussions about the quarterback position.
Winston has displayed promise, contrasting Watson’s struggles before his injury.

Watson’s hefty contract and past performance are complicating the team’s future decisions.
What’s Next

The Browns will need to evaluate their options carefully as they head into their matchup against the Denver Broncos. Decisions about Watson’s role will be critical, particularly regarding integrating him back into the starting position upon recovery. Monitoring the performance of Winston will also play a significant role in any moves related to Jones.

 

Bottom Line
The situation demands cautious navigation from the Browns; maintaining momentum with Winston while assessing Watson’s future is pivotal. The potential signing of Jones could introduce instability unless it aligns with a clear strategic vision moving forward.

 

The Cleveland Browns delivered an impressive victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking a significant moment for players and fans alike. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski’s record against the Steelers improves to 5-5, raising discussions about the team’s future, particularly concerning quarterback Jameis Winston. As the Browns evaluate their roster, standout performances from players like Myles Garrett and Jerry Jeudy are under scrutiny for long-term decisions.

 

By the Numbers
Myles Garrett recorded 3 sacks and 1 forced fumble.
Jerry Jeudy caught 6 passes for 85 yards.
Yes, But

While the victory is uplifting, concerns linger over Jameis Winston’s long-term reliability as starter. The quarterback situation remains precarious, particularly if Winston departs, leaving the team with uncertainty in their QB lineup.

 

State of Play
The Browns are in playoff contention with Winston leading the offense.
Myles Garrett continues to assert dominance on defense, reinforcing his elite status.
What’s Next

As the season progresses, the Browns will need to decide on Jameis Winston’s future, taking into consideration his connection with key players and team dynamics. Upcoming games will be critical for showcasing player performance and franchise direction.

 

Bottom Line
Success against rivals like the Steelers innately elevates team morale, but scrutinizing performance consistency among quarterbacks and key players will dictate the Browns’ path ahead. Ensuring alignment on strategy will be essential as they aim for a playoff run.

 

Cleveland’s tight ends, particularly David Njoku, emerged as key players in the Browns’ Week 12 victory against the Steelers. Njoku’s crucial catch during a 2-point conversion attempt exemplified the tight ends’ impact, contributing to a total of 76 receiving yards out of 219 for quarterback Jameis Winston.

 

The use of tight ends in creative ways proved vital in securing the win, demonstrating their importance beyond traditional roles in Cleveland’s offense. As the season progresses, there is an increasing need for the Browns to utilize their tight end talent to assess roster options and future offensive strategies.

 

By the Numbers
Cleveland’s tight ends combined for 76 receiving yards in the game.
Winston threw for a total of 219 yards, indicating a reliance on tight ends as key targets.
Yes, But

Despite the success of the tight ends, the Browns face significant challenges, including cap space issues linked to Deshaun Watson’s contract, limiting their options for acquiring top-tier tight end talent in future drafts.

 

State of Play
The Browns are currently assessing their tight end talent as the season nears its end.
Quarterback Jameis Winston is exploring various offensive schemes that involve tight ends more prominently.

What’s Next
Going forward, the Browns will likely focus on finding effective tight end combinations, while evaluating potential receiver acquisitions to optimize Winston’s performance moving into the next season.

 

Bottom Line
Utilizing the tight ends effectively could provide the Browns critical insights into roster decisions and enhance their offensive capabilities, making tight end performance a cornerstone of their strategic evaluation for future seasons.

 

The New York Jets’ season hasn’t gone as planned or desired. After getting Aaron Rodgers back from an Achilles injury that cost him all of the 2023 season, the Jets have limped to a 3-8 record in a year where expectations were at an all-time high. And now, he reportedly wants out.

Dianna Russini of The Athletic reports that Aaron Rodgers wants to play in 2025, but he doesn’t want to play for the Jets. Which begs the question – could the Cleveland Browns be in play for Rodgers in 2025? It’s clear that one way or another, the Deshaun…