After a disappointing three-win season in 2024, expectations were very low for the Cleveland Browns in 2025. Their win total was set at 4.5, their lowest mark since their infamous 0-16 season of 2017.
The Browns started the season by nearly upsetting the Bengals in Week 1 and then coming back from 10 points down in the fourth quarter to stun the Packers in Week 3. Ultimately, the Browns finished 5-12, sneaking over their win total after winning their final two games. The offense struggled with Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders each starting at least four games. The biggest highlight was Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, whose 23 sacks set an NFL single-season record. Now Garrett is gone, and new coach Todd Monken presides over a team that is a +570 long shot to make the playoffs. -- Mackenzie Kraemer
Note: Odds by DK Sports
and subject to change.
2026 outlook: Browns have pieces to jumpstart rebuild
The Browns enter 2026 with many new faces across the organization. New head coach Todd Monken cleaned house and brought in new offensive and defensive coordinators to help navigate their post-Garrett rebuild. There are a few things to like about Cleveland this year, including the easiest strength of schedule in the league (opponents had a .429 winning percentage in 2025) and the foundation of a young and potentially explosive offense to pair with their always stout defense. The biggest question mark is what they'll do at QB this season. Deshaun Watson will have a chance to command this new look offense, as will second-year signal-callers Sanders and Gabriel. The Browns will likely miss the playoffs yet again, but this season could be a pivotal building moment for the franchise as it tries to enter a new era. -- Daniel Dopp
Best bet: Quinshon Judkins OVER 899.5 rushing yards (-105)
Judkins carried the ball 230 times in his rookie season for 827 yards. In 2026, he'll have a (in theory) much-improved offensive line and the easiest schedule in the NFL on his side. Given their shaky QB situation, the Browns should rely on their young thumper to help use up the clock and wear down defenses as they grind out games this season. -- Dopp
