National predictions for the Browns have not been kind heading into the 2026 season. Local voices in Cleveland, however, are pushing back on the idea that this season should be viewed through a purely win-now lens. Ken Carman of 92.3 The Fan argued that this year is less about the record on the field and more about setting up whoever ultimately becomes Cleveland’s long-term answer at quarterback.
Carman explained why he views this season differently than the doom and gloom narrative surrounding the team nationally.
“To me, it’s not about this year, and it doesn’t mean that this whole thing is a complete, falling-apart a** dumpster fire. For so many years, it’s all or nothing. They’re either a team that can win a Super Bowl or a flat-out embarrassment. What they did was get ready for next year, and that’s why Deshaun Watson is on this team because you would’ve probably cut him for those comments a few weeks ago. Whoever is on this football team next year as our starting quarterback, we have to create a nice nest around that young man and take care of him. I gotta create a nice place for whoever ends up as the quarterback so we can finally take off,” Carman said.
"It's not about this year and it doesn't mean that this whole thing is a complete, falling apart ass dumpster fire."
🚨 @KenCarman to @SportsBoyTony on the #Browns this season pic.twitter.com/zdogjUICRn
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) September 3, 2026
Cleveland has spent 2 consecutive draft classes building out the pieces around its eventual franchise quarterback, from offensive line additions like Spencer Fano to a receiving corps now featuring Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion. On defense, the return of Defensive Rookie of the Year Carson Schwesinger and the addition of Jared Verse via the Myles Garrett trade give Mike Rutenberg a genuinely talented unit to build around as well.
If Cleveland’s plan does center on creating the right environment for its eventual franchise passer, this season may end up being remembered less for wins and losses and more for the foundation it helped establish.
NEXT: Insider Predicts A Surprise For Browns' Receiving Corps
