Browns kick off season against Cowboys
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Deshaun's vision quest. Photo: Nick Cammett/Getty Images
Browns fans will once again spend this weekend hoping the end of 60 years of disappointment is near.
Why it matters: Cleveland rode the league's top-rated defense to the playoffs last season despite starting five different quarterbacks.
- If primary QB Deshaun Watson stays healthy this season, the Browns can make a deep playoff run.
State of play: The Browns kick off the NFL season Sunday at the renamed Huntington Bank Field against the Dallas Cowboys.
The intrigue: Watson will make his first start since undergoing season-ending surgery on his throwing shoulder last November.
- Before the injury, Watson struggled while playing in just 12 games over two seasons due to injuries and an 11-game suspension for sexual misconduct allegations.
Yes, but: Reports from training camp suggest he may be ready to recapture the Pro Bowl form he once showcased with the Houston Texans.
What they're saying: Watson said he "no doubt" still considers himself an elite quarterback during a press conference this week.
- "I challenged myself to get back to this moment right now, and I wanted to make every throw in the spring," Watson said. "I did that."
Between the lines: Watson isn't the only player recovering from an injury. Star running back Nick Chubb will miss at least the first four weeks with a knee injury.
- Cleveland will rely on backup Jerome Ford and the defense led by Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward.
Who's new
A few new faces will make their regular season debut with the Browns on Sunday.
Why it matters: The team's offseason additions could be the difference between a disappointing season and a successful one.
What they did: In March, Cleveland traded for Denver Broncos receiver Jerry Jeudy, who adds another dynamic receiving option alongside Pro Bowlers Amari Cooper and David Njoku.
- The team also signed backup QB Jameis Winston as insurance against Deshaun Watson's recent injury history.
Between the lines: Ken Dorsey is the new offensive coordinator after spending the past five seasons with the Buffalo Bills.
- Yes, but: Head coach Kevin Stefanski will continue calling the offensive plays while drawing input from Dorsey.
The other side: One newbie fans won't see is Ohio State standout and second-round draft pick Mike Hall Jr.
- The defensive tackle is ineligible after being placed on the Commissioner's Exempt list following an alleged domestic violence incident.
What's next: The Browns have the most difficult strength of schedule this season, including six games in the competitive AFC North and showdowns against playoff contenders in the Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars and Kansas City Chiefs.
If you go: Tickets for Sunday are a hot commodity. Prices start at nearly $150.
- The game will air at 4:25pm on Fox.