With the Cleveland Browns at 3-1 for the first time in 25 years, there is plenty of credit for the excellent start to go around. Some of it is obvious, as quarterback Deshaun Watson has silenced doubters and won over fans with three straight game-winning drives.
Head coach Todd Monken has also made his mark, getting his team to play with a chip on its shoulder that is paying huge dividends. Monken was hired in part because of his ability to relate to young players, and that is where further praise is due.
NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay is giving major credit to Browns general manager Andrew Berry, who has put together back-to-back excellent classes.
“Said it on Sunday of Day 3 during this year’s draft (and distinctly remember saying, ‘I can’t believe I’m saying this’); no team in the NFL has had a better two-year draft run than the Browns,” McShay posted.
Said it on Sunday of Day 3 during this year’s draft (and distinctly remember saying, “I can’t believe I’m saying this”); no team in the NFL has had a better two-yr draft run than the Browns. Check this out 👇 https://t.co/XPE0g5giY7
— Todd McShay (@McShay13) October 2, 2026
Data scientist Tej Seth provided a list of accomplishments by Berry’s recent picks in a 27-24 win against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday night, via Sumer Sports. It includes all of his top selections from the 2025 and 2026 drafts.
Wide receiver Denzel Boston had four receptions for 89 yards, and fellow rookie wideout KC Concepcion had five receptions for 64 yards. Second-year tight end Harold Fannin had three receptions for 27 yards and a touchdown, and linebacker Carson Schwesinger generated a 25 percent pressure rate and allowed just five yards in pass coverage.
Second-year running back Quinshon Judkins combined 45 rushing yards after contact with 42 receiving yards, and rookie left tackle Spencer Fano had a 2.7 percent pressure rate allowed. Rookie safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren gave up one reception and made three impact plays.
That does not even mention rookie right guard Austin Barber, who emerged as a starter heading into Week 1 and was part of a Browns offensive line that limited the Steelers to one of their lowest pressure rates in the past three years. Watson was able to pass for 181 yards in the first half as Cleveland built a 21-7 lead.
The hope was that the Browns’ young talent would emerge over the coming seasons, but it looks like they are making a big impact much sooner than anyone predicted.
NEXT: Deshaun Watson Just Did Something No Brown Has Done In Decades
