The Cleveland Browns had been playing games that easily could have gone either way, and it finally went against them in Week 5 against the New York Jets. The Browns had plenty of opportunities to earn a fourth straight victory, but they wound up with a 17-12 loss instead.
While things may not have been as good as they seemed during the winning streak, they also aren’t necessarily as bad as they looked on Sunday. Challenging weather and some injuries on offense definitely played a role in the disappointing defeat.
Which is why analyst Ken Carman is telling Browns fans there’s still plenty to be excited about, because the team has shown what it is capable of when it turns things around for good.
“At 3-2, it ain’t all over. It’s Week 5. So I’m not that upset. Sue me. I’m not sorry. Don’t blame me. It ain’t my fault. I didn’t lose the game. Too bad. How is that worrisome when so many people thought we were going to be a bottom-four team anyway? They gave you a glimmer of what could be when they have more depth. They gave you a glimmer of what could be when you have more high-end draft picks. That’s what they gave you a glimmer of,” Carman said.
"I am a little surprised about this. I was looking forward to coming in, hopefully being 4-1…I wanted to do Super Bowl, Super Browns…"
"How is that worrisome when so many people thought we were going to be a bottom 4 team anyway? They gave you a glimmer of what could be when… https://t.co/lIg4kKxBhO pic.twitter.com/JMBxUqAIXP
— 92.3 The Fan (@923TheFan) October 12, 2026
It was easy for Browns fans to start thinking about the playoffs with the team at 3-1 and in first place in the AFC North. Quarterback Deshaun Watson was also wildly exceeding expectations in his first game action in almost two years.
But it was also worth remembering that the Browns needed a game-winning fourth-quarter drive in each of their victories, along with a game-sealing defensive stand. They were in line to do it again against the Jets, but this time, it was the opponent who was able to put those two elements together.
Early in the game, Browns wide receiver KC Concepcion suffered a scary head injury, and losing their most-targeted player had an effect on the passing game. Then, right tackle Tytus Howard left late in the contest, leading to four fourth-quarter sacks of Watson.
In addition, a huge special teams miscue by punter Corey Bojorquez, who failed to catch a snap, set up a short field for the Jets’ game-winning score. The Browns did have one more chance with the ball, but Watson could not engineer another comeback.
As one of 10 AFC teams with at least three wins, the Browns remain in the playoff mix and can even regain first place in the division with a win against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 6.
NEXT: Analyst Delivers Harsh Reality Check About Browns' Outlook
