The Cleveland Browns’ 2025-26 season came to an end with a 20-18 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, finishing the year with a 5-12 record. The season was filled with highs and lows, showing flashes of promise in some areas while exposing major weaknesses in others. One of the biggest highlights came from defensive star Myles Garrett, who secured the NFL all-time single-season sack record, strengthening his case for Defensive Player of the Year. Ironically, during that same week, head coach Kevin Stefanski, who had led the team for the past six seasons, was fired.
Despite the losing record and the ongoing search for a new head coach, several young players showed they could be foundational pieces for the future. On offense, rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. led the team in receiving yards and became the second-youngest tight end in NFL history to record a 100-yard receiving game. Fellow rookie Quinshon Judkins also impressed, leading the team in rushing and showing signs of being the running back of the future. Both players were on pace to reach 1,000 yards in their respective categories had they played the full season. Injuries sidelined Fannin for stretches, while Judkins dealt with both injuries and off-the-field issues that limited his availability.
Perhaps the biggest question heading into next season is the quarterback position. Joe Flacco began the season as the starter but was traded to the Bengals, forcing rookie Dillon Gabriel into the role. After Gabriel suffered an injury, rookie Shedeur Sanders took over and remained the starter for the remainder of the season. Constant changes under center contributed to the Browns ranking near the bottom of the league offensively and played a major role in their losses. While none of the quarterbacks stood out consistently, Sanders showed flashes of potential, raising questions about whether the Browns should pursue a veteran or give him a full season to develop.
Overall, the Browns appear to have a promising young core on both sides of the ball. Linebacker Carson Schweissenger also emerged as a strong contender for Defensive Rookie of the Year. While the team faces uncertainty with a new coaching search ahead, there are clear signs that the future in Cleveland may be brighter than the record suggests.
