The Cleveland Browns are embarking on a significant reset for the 2026 season, with Todd Monken stepping in as head coach following the departure of Kevin Stefanski. The team has also made a high-profile trade, sending two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams.
Last season, the Browns finished at the bottom of the AFC North with a 5-12 record, struggling with offensive inconsistency and quarterback issues that led to averaging a league-worst 16.4 points per game. These struggles ultimately contributed to the end of Stefanski's six-year tenure.
Offseason Overhaul
The Browns' offseason moves aim to reshape the roster under Monken, a former offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens and head coach at Georgia. In a significant deal, Cleveland traded Garrett to the Rams in exchange for pass rusher Jared Verse and draft capital, a move the team's general manager described as an opportunity that was "too great" to pass up.
The team also bolstered its offensive line by signing guard Zion Johnson and center Elgton Jenkins. Defensive additions include linebacker Quincy Williams and defensive tackle Kalia Davis. The offense has been further stacked with young talent, including wide receiver Isaiah Bond and college running backs Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson. Veteran depth has been added with pass rusher A.J. Epenesa and receiver Tylan Wallace.
Quarterback Competition and Roster Outlook
Monken inherits a revamped offensive line expected to support a backfield rotation led by Judkins, alongside veteran Jerry Jeudy and draft additions at wide receiver. However, the quarterback position remains a focal point of uncertainty, with Deshaun Watson competing for snaps against rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. One former NFL receiver suggested that Watson could face a "very short leash" if early-season success is not achieved.
While the additions of Verse and Alex Wright at edge rusher, along with Denzel Ward in the secondary, provide some defensive strength, the front seven lacks proven star power. The defense is expected to rely heavily on scheme and discipline to compensate for the loss of Garrett's game-disrupting ability.
Betting Outlook
Analysts express significant doubt about the Browns' prospects for the upcoming season, particularly given their challenging division schedule which includes the Steelers, Ravens, and Bengals twice each. With a projected win total under 5.5 games, the outlook is cautious, citing concerns about Watson's recent performance and a lack of faith in the rookie quarterbacks, Sanders and Gabriel.