Captains’ Code: Breaking Down 2025 NFL Team DNA — Cleveland Browns
Edition #272
Everyone’s doing season previews — but we’re doing something different. The
Captains’ Code is all about what really makes or breaks an NFL team. It’s not just about rosters or vibes. It’s about the identity, the pressure points, the bold calls, and the one thing that could send everything crashing down… or finally take them over the top. No filler. Just straight-up football breakdowns that tell you what actually matters heading into 2025.
The X-Factor That Will Make or Break This Season
Let’s get this straight. The Browns aren’t going to be making the playoffs this year, and probably not next year as well, though I may be wrong on the latter. The Browns need to focus on developing everyone they have on their team. Specifically, the rookies. Instead of looking at the standings this year, the Browns need to look at their rookie players’ stats.
Last Year’s Numbers:
In the 2024 NFL regular season, the Cleveland Browns’ offense struggled significantly, ranking near the bottom of the league in several key categories. They finished last (32nd) in points scored per game with 15.2, tied with the Titans for the most turnovers with 34, and last in pass yards per attempt. The Browns' passing attack ranked 22nd in yards per game with 206.2, and their rushing offense was 29th with 94.6 yards per game. Defensively, the Browns were also among the worst in the league, ranking 27th in opponent points per game, allowing 25.6, and 19th in total yards allowed per game. They allowed 212.4 passing yards per game, ranking 12th, but struggled more against the run, ranking 21st in opponent rushing yards per game. The Browns' defense registered 66 sacks (31st) and recorded only 4 interceptions (last). Their turnover differential was a league-worst -22.
Key Player(s) to Watch: The Heroes and the Wild Cards
Mason Graham and Dillon Gabriel.
Mason Graham, who was drafted at #5 in the first round of the draft, is going to be huge for the Browns. This could be the next Myles Garrett. The three or four games the Browns may win this year will probably be because of Mason Graham.
On the other hand, you have Dillon Gabriel. Gabriel is competing with Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Shedeur Sanders, and Deshaun Watson. He’s probably not going to see that ever again. He is very good, but the only concern is his height. Gabriel's arm is strong enough to make every throw, and he can make any pass when throwing with a strong base.
Coaching: What’s Different This Year?
The Cleveland Browns made several coaching changes for the 2025 season, primarily on offense. Tommy Rees was promoted to offensive coordinator, replacing Ken Dorsey, while Christian Jones was hired as tight ends coach. The team added Sanders Davis and Ben Wilkerson as assistant offensive line coaches and removed Andy Dickerson. Bill Musgrave shifted from senior offensive assistant to quarterbacks coach, and Stephen Bravo-Brown moved from special teams assistant to assistant wide receivers coach. Head coach Kevin Stefanski will resume offensive play-calling duties. Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone remain in their roles.
The Bold Prediction
This team just keeps dealing with domestic violence cases. They’ve had three incidents since last year, including one involving their second-round running back Quinshon Judkins, who’s out of jail on bond and awaiting his first hearing. I don’t expect much from this Browns team. Give me 5 wins.
The Realistic Win Total & Why
3-14. No explanation needed.
The Biggest Question Mark Heading Into 2025
Will Joe Flacco Do It Again?
My Takeaway
The Cleveland Browns suck, and they’re not going to get very far this season. They need to develop their players as much as possible, so they’re set for the future.