CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns made changes to their coaching staff during the offseason to revamp their offense to better support quarterback Deshaun Watson. However, after three games, the results have not shown any significant improvement.
Cleveland’s offense has struggled with creativity, identity, and consistency, with Watson facing heavy pressure and failing to effectively read defensive coverages. The plans for an upgraded attack, featuring more run-pass options, shotgun formations, and diverse receiver packages, have seemingly backfired.
The Browns have managed to score only 17, 18, and 15 points across their last three games, averaging a mere 248 total yards — the second-lowest in the league.
Despite it being early in the season, head coach Kevin Stefanski has indicated that improvement may not come quickly. Watson has shown glimpses of his ability with some solid throws, but his accuracy and timing have been off, particularly in deep passes, and he struggled notably in a loss to the New York Giants, where he was sacked eight times and hit 17 additional times.
Watson currently leads the league in sacks taken this season, which raises concerns about the effectiveness of both the offensive line, now hindered by injuries, and the overall offensive strategy designed by Stefanski and first-year coordinator Ken Dorsey.
“It’s everybody,” said Stefanski, emphasizing that the issues stem from his coaching as well as the performance of players across the offense.
The ground game has also faltered, with the team unable to establish a strong running presence, further limiting their offensive options. Missing Pro Bowl tight end David Njoku, who is sidelined with a sprained ankle, has exacerbated the situation; he is considered one of Watson’s key targets.
Despite the struggles, there were bright spots, including a strong performance from wide receiver Amari Cooper, who caught seven passes for 86 yards and two touchdowns, revitalizing his role on the team after a slow start to the season.
On the offensive line, injuries are compounding problems. Expected starter Wyatt Teller is likely headed to injured reserve due to a knee injury, while other key players are also dealing with ailments. Jack Conklin’s return was hampered by a hamstring injury, and Dawand Jones was benched only to be needed later due to more injuries on the line.
Defensively, cornerback Denzel Ward had a standout performance despite being limited by a shoulder issue, making five tackles and breaking up two passes. However, cornerback Greg Newsome II received a costly penalty for roughing the quarterback that negated a potential interception, allowing the Giants to keep possession and score.
Myles Garrett, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, is managing foot issues and is considered day-to-day after receiving treatment during the game.
Looking ahead, the Browns will travel to Las Vegas for the first of three consecutive road games, possibly in hopes of finding relief from their home crowd’s discontent after receiving boos in two of their last three games.