Overview
- The Browns' owner Jimmy Haslam told reporters Friday at training camp that he will "take the over" on a 5.5-win projection, signaling raised expectations for 2026.
- Haslam and managing partner JW Johnson said the franchise is building to be a playoff contender in 2027 and emphasized they are not purposely tanking the current season.
- The quarterback competition remains unresolved with Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel all in the mix and the team expecting to name a Week 1 starter before the opener.
- Cleveland has reshaped the roster this offseason, trading Myles Garrett to the Rams on June 1 for Jared Verse and multiple future draft picks, adding several early 2026 draft picks, and extending key defensive players.
- With first-time NFL head coach Todd Monken now leading camp and the team likely to start many early-career players, the Browns' outlook hinges on the QB decision, rookie development and how the new draft capital is used.