The Cleveland Browns may not have inspired much confidence in a lopsided loss to the Chicago Bears in their preseason opener, but there were just enough reasons to remain optimistic. Deshaun Watson managed to survive his first live action in almost two years, and while the veteran quarterback was not explosive, he was at least efficient.
Watson managed to avoid the interceptions that were plaguing him in training camp and may have put his status relative to Shedeur Sanders in jeopardy. If Watson can build on his modest performance this week in a joint practice and preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, the outlook for the Browns this season could change considerably.
With Watson’s potential improvement in mind, national analyst Booger McFarland has named the Browns as his surprise team in the AFC this season.
“I think the Browns could be the surprise of the AFC. I think Deshaun Watson is going to wind up better than people think,” McFarland said.
Booger thinks the Browns will be the surprise team in the AFC pic.twitter.com/NjHy85cmXd
— Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports) August 17, 2026
McFarland does not say whether “surprise” means the Browns will make the playoffs or simply have a better record than most pundits predict. The latter is a particularly low bar, as Cleveland has one of the worst over-under win totals in the NFL, with most betting odds putting it at 5.5.
It’s an important distinction, because this season will have a great impact on the future of the franchise. If Watson does manage to revive his career and play well, but the Browns don’t make the playoffs, he could leave as a free agent or cost a lot to re-sign.
If so, the team might not have a high enough pick to select his replacement in the 2027 NFL Draft. It also would leave the Browns with many unanswered questions about Sanders and his long-term role.
With one of the best defenses in the NFL, the Browns do have a chance to contend for the playoffs if they get any kind of competent play from their offense. If Watson returns to the Pro Bowl form he showed with the Houston Texans, the postseason would be well within reach.
Cleveland can also take advantage of one of the easiest schedules in the NFL, based on its opponents’ projected win totals for this season.
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