The Cleveland Browns’ current chance of making the playoffs is slim, with most models giving them less than a 1% chance. Given that the postseason is out of the picture, there are a few other directions the Browns’ season could go over these remaining weeks.
Cleveland sits in a group of teams with two wins this season, whereas the Tennessee Titans have managed just one. Should the Browns lose out on the season, they would likely end up with the first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Another potential,
but unlikely, scenario is that the team turns things around this season and wins out, narrowly missing the playoffs. While neither situation is ideal, which scenario would be best for Cleveland’s future?
Losing out and getting the top draft pick would obviously give the Browns their choice of whoever their favorite player is in next year’s draft. If there is a particular quarterback that they love, getting the first pick would ensure that they could get their quarterback of the future. If the team loses out, there is a strong possibility that either Andrew Berry or Kevin Stefanski, or both, will be fired. This could lead to organizational dysfunction and undermine their ability to evaluate prospects and make the right draft decisions.
Winning out for the rest of the season would be great for the overall culture in the organization. It would be a clear indication that the team is going in the right direction and would help establish a new standard in Cleveland. The downside is missing out on a high first-round selection that might secure a quarterback or another core building block.
Given the current playoff probability and the team’s need to prioritize finding young talent, especially on the offensive side of the ball, it would make the most sense to tank and lose out for the rest of the season.
Let me know what you think in the comments – Would you prefer the top draft pick or a late-season winning streak?
