The Cleveland Browns are undergoing significant changes on offense following a disappointing 2024 season marked by low scoring and four different starting quarterbacks. The team has made several key adjustments, including firing offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and hiring Tommy Reese, bringing in a new offensive line coach Mike Bloomglen, and using five of their seven draft picks on offensive players. Notably, the Browns have added four new quarterbacks this offseason: Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Chedure Sanders.
As organized team activities (OTAs) begin, the Browns’ revamped offense is starting to take shape, with a competitive quarterback battle unfolding under head coach Kevin Stefanski. Veteran quarterbacks Flacco and Pickett shared first-team reps during practices, while rookies Gabriel and Sanders worked with the backup squads. Though Flacco brings experience and familiarity with Stefanski’s system, the Browns view every quarterback as a strong contender. General Manager Andrew Berry expressed confidence in all four, highlighting Pickett’s potential as a trade target, Gabriel’s impressive draft performance, and Sanders’ promising talent as a possible draft steal.
Running back is another area seeing change, with franchise legend Nick Chubb unlikely to return. Instead, the Browns are relying on a mix of rookies and existing players like Jerome Ford, aiming to improve off their 29th-ranked rushing attack from last season. Rookie Sampson highlighted the strategy of rotating backs to keep everyone healthy and fresh over the course of a long NFL season.
At wide receiver, the Browns enter OTAs with mostly inexperienced players, aside from Jerry Jeudy who had a breakout year in 2024. With former key player Elijah Moore now with the Buffalo Bills, and newcomer Diontae Johnson, known for his excellent route running, joining the team, the Browns hope to bolster their receiving corps. Young receivers Cedric Tillman and Jamaris Rush will also seek larger roles.
Tight end David Njoku aims to rebound after an injury-shortened 2023 season, while rookie Harold Fanin Jr., praised for his versatility and athleticism, could add a new dynamic to the position group. The offensive line retains much of its core, with veterans Joel Bitonio, Jack Conklin, Ethan Pocic, and Wyatt Teller all returning. Despite setbacks from injuries, the Browns have brought in depth with experienced players like Cornelius Lucas and Teven Jenkins. The team intends to return to coach Stefanski’s familiar running scheme, hoping better health and system familiarity translate to more consistent offensive performance.
Fan Take: This offseason overhaul represents a pivotal moment for the Browns, signaling a clear commitment to rebuilding a competitive offense. NFL fans should watch closely as this revamped unit, especially the quarterback competition, could dramatically shift the balance of power in the AFC North and influence offensive strategies league-wide.
