Browns end-of-season checklist: What’s at stake in finale, and what to expect in 2025

Key Takeaways:

• The Cleveland Browns end their 3-13 season facing the Baltimore Ravens.
• Bailey Zappe will start as the Browns’ 40th quarterback since 1999.
• The game’s outcome could secure a top-three pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
• Star player Myles Garrett questions his future with the team amid possible organizational changes.
• The franchise faces financial challenges and potential shifts in coaching and management.

A Season Finale with High Stakes

The 3-13 Cleveland Browns are set to close a disappointing season this Saturday as they face the 11-5 Baltimore Ravens in Baltimore. With a season marred by losses and instability, this final game carries significant weight for both teams.

Bailey Zappe: The 40th Quarterback Since 1999

Bailey Zappe will take the helm as the Browns’ starting quarterback, becoming the 40th player to start at that position since the team’s return to the NFL in 1999. This marks the second consecutive season in which the Browns have utilized at least four different starting quarterbacks.

Zappe’s journey has been tumultuous. The Browns signed him off the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad in October after Deshaun Watson’s season-ending Achilles injury. After a brief stint that saw him cut and re-signed, Zappe now makes his ninth career start. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has hinted at possibly playing both Zappe and Dorian Thompson-Robinson to bring a change of pace to the offense.

Draft Implications Hang in the Balance

While the Ravens aim to clinch the AFC North and secure a home playoff game with a victory, the Browns have their eyes on draft positioning. A loss could guarantee Cleveland a top-three pick in April’s NFL Draft. Depending on other game outcomes, they might even land the coveted No. 1 pick.

Myles Garrett Shines Amidst Team Struggles

Defensive end Myles Garrett stands out in an otherwise bleak season for the Browns. Recently becoming the first player to record at least 14 sacks in four consecutive seasons, Garrett enters the finale tied for the NFL lead with 14 sacks. He also became the youngest player to reach 100 career sacks.

Despite his personal success, Garrett has expressed uncertainty about his future with the team. He doesn’t want to be part of another rebuild, and he’s looking for a clear plan to return to playoff contention before committing further.

Organizational Changes on the Horizon

The Browns face potential upheaval in coaching and management. While both Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry signed extensions last spring, the team’s performance has led to speculation about possible changes. The costly 2022 trade for Deshaun Watson, compounded by ongoing cap commitments exceeding $170 million, adds financial strain to the franchise.

Questions loom over whether the current front office can successfully navigate the upcoming 2025 draft, especially after trading away three first-round picks in the Watson deal. The offense’s underperformance and special teams’ struggles might prompt further restructuring.

Key Players Approach Free Agency

Several starters and contributors are set to become free agents in March, adding to the Browns’ uncertainty. Notable names include Elijah Moore, Devin Bush, and Jordan Akins. Additionally, longtime guard Joel Bitonio remains undecided about his future beyond next season.

Looking Ahead

As the Browns conclude a challenging season, the organization faces critical decisions that will shape its future. The combination of on-field struggles, financial concerns, and potential roster changes sets the stage for an offseason filled with pivotal choices.