Overview
- The Cleveland Browns' season ended with a 45-14 loss to the Houston Texans in the AFC playoffs, despite a late-season surge led by backup quarterback Joe Flacco.
- Deshaun Watson, the Browns' starting quarterback, missed much of the season due to a shoulder injury but is expected to return next season.
- The Browns' defense was notably inconsistent, performing well at home but poorly on the road.
- Despite the playoff loss, the Browns' management and coaching staff are viewed positively, with head coach Kevin Stefanski expected to sign a contract extension soon.
- The Houston Texans' rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud had an impressive performance in the playoff game, becoming the youngest QB in NFL history to win a playoff game.