2023-09-13 20:16:40
NFL 2023: The Cleveland Browns Preview
September 13, 2023
Deshaun Watson en pretemporada vs. Washington Commanders – Jason Miller/Getty ImagesCaption
Although it has been a long time since its golden years, the Cleveland Browns come into this season with many expectations. Of course, there is still a lot of skepticism on the part of the public – and with valid reasons – but the team at Kevin Stefanski It has the necessary resources to have a more than solid season.
Of course, it goes without saying that playing in the AFC North complicates their aspirations, considering that both the Baltimore Ravens and the Cincinnati Bengals they should be strong Super Bowl contenders and we already know very well what they are capable of Mike Tomlin and the iron defense of the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The Ohio team has not qualified for the playoffs for two years and a third consecutive disappointment might cost Stefanski his job; same case to the General Manager Andrew Berry. But obviously the biggest weight lies on the shoulders of Deshaun Watson, who received a huge contract extension and it looked very bad in the six games played following serving his suspension last season. Taking this into consideration, as well as all the moves they made in the offseason, we present to you the Cleveland Browns preview for 2023.
looking forward to more unstoppable offense heading into Week 1
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— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) September 5, 2023
Cleveland Browns registrations for the NFL 2023
With the arrival of Jim Schwartz As the new defensive coordinator, it was not surprising that most of the transactions came from this side of the field. Furthermore, taking into account the shortcomings of the roster and how bad they looked once morest the run last season, the need to reinforce the front lines was more than evident.
In this sense, the Browns had excellent management in both free agency and transfers, adding renowned veterans such as Dalvin Tomlinson, Ogbonnia Okoronkwo, John Thornhill and Za’Darius Smith. They also landed a very promising defensive prospect in Siaki Ika.
On the other side of the field, perhaps the most notable addition might be wide receiver Cedric Tillmantaken in the third round with the first selection they had available in the draft as a result of the transfer of Deshaun Watson.
Cleveland Browns casualties for the NFL 2023
In terms of casualties, Kevin Stefanski’s team did not suffer any big-name losses beyond JaDeveon Clowney, who was not at his best nor left the team on the best terms. Also, as we already discussed, improving pass-rush was a priority and they delivered.
Kareem Hunt He did not renew his contract, and the fact that he has not yet found another team at this point in the season shows that Andrew Berry was not wrong in not offering him to return to the team. Clearly, confidence in Jerome Ford is there and he is expected to have a prominent role on third down.
The Cleveland Browns attack for 2023
All the spotlights are going to go to Deshaun Watson, of course. We are talking regarding a contract $230 million dollars, so the Browns will surely expect production similar to that offered in Houston; nearly 5,000 yards and 33 TDs. The Browns made a huge investment of capital and money to get a franchise QB once and for all, and considering Watson’s legal situation and everything they gave for him, he cannot be left in debt.
However, the key piece will once more be Nick Chubb. The Georgia graduate is perhaps the best running back in the league when it comes to breaking tackles, and now that he’ll finally have a passing game backing him up, his presence on the field will open up plenty of avenues for Watson and company. As far as the passing game is concerned, Amari Cooperer should be the former Clemson’s favorite target, with Marquise Goodwin taking advantage of his efficiency and arm power to make big plays with his speed. In addition, Elijah Moore and his versatility as a running back or wide receiver should create plenty of spots.
few more sleeps til football szn
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— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) September 7, 2023
The Cleveland Browns defense for 2023
We already talked regarding the obvious when discussing the importance of Deshaun Watson, and obviously a more efficient offense should be the main difference between last year’s team and this one. Ironically, this is not the case. Jim Schwartz is one of the best defensive minds in the league currently and the franchise’s emphasis on giving him More versatility, dynamism and depth to their front-seven might be well rewarded this season.
With Dalvin Tomlinson, Za’Darius Smith and Myles Garrett, the Browns should be one of the best teams when it comes to getting to opposing QBs. Have one of the best pass rush units in the NFL by a considerable margin, and they should have much more success once morest the run.
The Cleveland Browns schedule for the 2023 NFL
vs. Cincinnati Bengals – 10/9 – 2:00 PM ARG
@ Pittsburgh Steelers – 18/9 – 9:15 PM ARG (MNF)
vs. Tennessee Titans – 24/9 – 2:00 PM ARG
vs. Baltimore Ravens – 1/10 – 2:00 PM ARG
BYE WEEK
vs. San Francisco 49ers – 15/10 – 2:00 PM ARG
@ Indianapolis Colts – 22/10 – 2:00 PM ARG
@ Seattle Seahawks – 29/10 – 5:05 PM ARG
vs. Arizona Cardinals – 5/11 – 3:00 PM ARG
@ Baltimore Ravens -12/11 – 3:00 PM ARG
vs. Pittsburgh Steelers – 19/11 – 3:00 PM ARG
@ Denver Broncos – 26/11 – 6:05 PM ARG
@ Los Angeles Rams – 3/12 – 6:25 PM ARG
vs. Jacksonville Jaguars – 10/12 – 3:00 PM ARG
vs. Chicago Bears – 17/12 – 2:00 PM ARG
@ Houston Texans – 24/12 – 3:00 PM ARG
vs. New York Jets – 28/12 – 10:15 PM ARG (TNF)
@ Cincinnati Bengals – 7/1/24 – 2:00 PM ARG
Prediction for the Cleveland Browns 2023 NFL season
Needless to say, the outlook is complicated for the Browns this year. Not making the postseason is not an option, but their schedule is simply brutal. Three divisional duels in the first month of the season, Not to mention that the AFC North will be the most competitive division in the league, with all four teams vying for a playoff spot.
With reinforcements and a full season with Deshaun Watson, the Browns should be much better than last year in virtually every aspect, but as we well know, this may not be enough. Considering the calendar and the context, We predict a 9-8 record for Kevin Stefanski’s team.
Ernesto Cova
Sports psychologist and editor for 8 years. He is a specialist in NBA, NFL and MLB. Contributor at No Huddle since 2022.
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