Challenges and Changes in Cleveland Browns' 2024 Season
The Cleveland Browns have faced a tumultuous 2024 season, currently standing at a 3-10 record. This challenging period has prompted strategic shifts and personnel changes as the team navigates a variety of hurdles both on and off the field.
During the offseason, the Browns showed commitment to their leadership, extending the contracts of Head Coach Kevin Stefanski and General Manager Andrew Berry. However, the stability provided by these extensions has been tested by the team's struggles, prompting notable adjustments in strategy and on-field roles.
Coaching Adjustments and Offensive Strategy
In Week 8, Ken Dorsey assumed responsibility for the offensive play-calling duties, which had previously been under Kevin Stefanski's management. This transition marks a significant shift aimed at revitalizing an offense that has underperformed throughout the season. These changes in the coaching dynamics coincide with Mike Vrabel taking on a more prominent role on the sidelines, reflecting the Browns' adaptive approach in response to their underwhelming performance.
Injury Woes: The Impact of Deshaun Watson's Achilles Tear
Much of the Browns' struggles can be attributed to the absence of their starting quarterback, Deshaun Watson. Watson suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, a severe blow to the team’s offensive capabilities. Since joining the Browns in 2022, Watson has played a total of 19 games for the team, and his performance in 2024 yielded a passer rating of 80.7 before his injury.
General Manager Andrew Berry emphasized the organization’s priority regarding Watson’s situation, stating, "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.” With Watson's health being paramount, the Browns are looking at long-term implications, including the substantial financial burden associated with his contract. Releasing Watson post-June 1, 2025, would result in approximately $119 million in dead money, underscoring the importance of his successful recovery.
Key Roster Considerations Moving Forward
The Browns are also dealing with significant financial and roster management issues. Cornerback Greg Newsome is heading into the 2025 season on his fifth-year option, which comes with a hefty $13.37 million cap hit. Furthermore, offensive tackle Jedrick Wills is poised to become an unrestricted free agent by March 2025, necessitating critical decisions regarding his future with the team.
Running back Nick Chubb is approaching the final year of his deal, and his performance will likely play a significant role in the Browns' offseason planning. Meanwhile, Myles Garrett has been a standout performer amidst the team's difficulties, winning the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. His contributions have been invaluable, but the Browns must also consider his financial implications, with an $18.5 million roster bonus due early in the next league year.
The Path Ahead
As the Browns grapple with these challenges, their strategies and decisions in the coming months will be crucial in shaping their future. The offseason will require careful evaluation of player performances, contract negotiations, and injury recoveries. Addressing the complexities of their roster and ensuring the health and readiness of key players like Deshaun Watson will be paramount.
The Browns organization, under the leadership of Stefanski and Berry, must navigate these turbulent times with precision and foresight, seeking to rebuild a foundation for success in future seasons. While the 2024 season has been fraught with difficulties, it also presents an opportunity for the franchise to learn, adapt, and ultimately emerge stronger.