Cleveland Browns: Five Late Drives Define New Era
Todd Monken’s squad sits 5-2 with Pittsburgh, fueled by Deshaun Watson’s resurgence and Andre Szmyt’s clutch kicks.
By Carlos Rousseau ·
The Cleveland Browns have started the season 5-2 under first-year head coach Todd Monken. The team is currently tied with the Pittsburgh Steelers for first place in the AFC North. This standing marks a sharp contrast to the previous two seasons, during which Cleveland finished 8-26.
Monken brought familiarity to the job. He served as the Browns' offensive coordinator in 2019 and then led the Baltimore Ravens' offense from 2023 to 2025. During that period, he faced Cleveland twice each year. Ideastream Public Media commentator Terry Pluto said Monken knows the organization's history and rejects the idea that the team is destined for mediocrity.
Monken made the decision to start quarterback Deshaun Watson. The choice drew scrutiny due to Watson's injury history and legal issues. Pluto admitted he initially preferred Shedeur Sanders. However, he now views Watson as the best option. Pluto noted that Watson's performance against Tennessee last week was his best since suffering a shoulder injury in 2023.
Kicker Andre Szmyt has been a key factor in recent wins. He has made three game-winning field goals. Pluto called Szmyt an unsung hero. In past seasons, the Browns often missed critical kicks in close games. Szmyt has converted those opportunities for Cleveland.
General Manager Andrew Berry has also contributed to the improvement. Berry gained more draft capital after trading away three first-round picks and other selections for Watson. He has used that capital to sign rookies KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston. Both players have made impacts on the offense.
Monken described the team as "under construction." He specifically noted that the offensive line is still developing. The team has won several close games recently. The defense and young offensive talent have both played roles in those victories.
The Browns visit Pittsburgh this Sunday. A victory would give Cleveland its first season sweep of the Steelers since 1988. It would also secure sole possession of first place in the division. Monken's staff views this game as a major test of the team's confidence. Beating a division rival twice in one season is a traditional benchmark for success.
Pluto described the matchup as gigantic. He acknowledged that a loss would not be catastrophic. However, a win would bolster the team's belief in itself. Cleveland has already beaten Baltimore once this season. They will play the Ravens again later in the year. These divisional results are the primary metrics for evaluating the team's progress.
