The Cleveland Browns have had a long and tumultuous history when it comes to the quarterback position. From legendary players like Otto Graham and Bernie Kosar to recent first-round draft picks like Baker Mayfield and Johnny Manziel, the Browns have experienced both highs and lows at the game’s most important position.
The Past
For much of the Browns’ early history, the quarterback position was dominated by one man: Otto Graham. Graham led the Browns to ten championship games in his ten seasons with the team, winning seven of them. He retired in 1955, and the Browns struggled to find a suitable replacement for many years.
In the 1980s, the Browns found another franchise quarterback in Bernie Kosar. Kosar led the Browns to three AFC championship games in four seasons and helped cement the team’s place as one of the NFL’s elite franchises. However, a falling out with head coach Bill Belichick led to Kosar’s departure in 1993, and the Browns again struggled to find a long-term solution at quarterback.
The Present
In recent years, the Browns have drafted several high-profile quarterbacks in hopes of finding their next franchise signal-caller. Johnny Manziel was selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, but off-field issues and poor play derailed his career before it even really got started.
The Browns tried again in 2018, selecting Baker Mayfield with the first overall pick. Mayfield had a strong rookie season, throwing for over 3,700 yards and 27 touchdowns, but his play has been inconsistent since then. In 2020, he threw for just 26 touchdowns and 8 interceptions, leading some fans and analysts to question whether he is truly the long-term solution at quarterback.
The Future
So what does the future hold for the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback position? It’s hard to say for sure, but the team seems committed to giving Baker Mayfield another shot in 2021. They also signed veteran quarterback Case Keenum to serve as a backup and mentor to Mayfield.
Of course, the Browns could always look to the draft or free agency for their next quarterback if Mayfield doesn’t pan out. The 2022 and 2023 NFL Drafts are expected to be strong at the quarterback position, and there are always intriguing free agents available.
No matter what happens, one thing is clear: the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback conundrum is far from over. But with a talented roster and a smart front office in place, Browns fans can remain hopeful that the team will find their next great signal-caller sooner rather than later.
The 2023 NFL Draft Picks
The Browns had a strong showing in the 2023 NFL Draft, addressing several key needs and adding some exciting young talent to the roster. Their first-round pick, defensive end Xavier Henderson, is a disruptive force who should help shore up the team’s pass rush. In the second round, the Browns grabbed linebacker Terrell Davis, who brings speed and athleticism to the position. And in the third round, the team selected wide receiver Julian Johnson, who has the potential to be a game-changing playmaker.
Outlook for the 2023 Season
With their new additions and key re-signings, the Browns look poised to build on their success from 2022 and compete for a Super Bowl in 2023. The defense should be much improved with the addition of Henderson and Harrison, and the offense will be even more dangerous with the continued development of Mayfield and the addition of Johnson. Of course, the NFL is a highly competitive league, and nothing is guaranteed, but Browns fans have reason to be optimistic about the team’s future.
Conclusion
The Cleveland Browns have a long and storied history at the quarterback position, and the team’s present and future at the position is still very much up in the air. But with a passionate fan base and a commitment to building a winning team, Browns fans can remain hopeful that the team will find their next great quarterback soon.
FAQs
Who is the most successful quarterback in Cleveland Browns history?
Otto Graham is widely considered the most successful quarterback in Browns history, leading the team to ten championship games in his ten seasons with the team and winning seven of them.
Is Baker Mayfield the long-term solution at quarterback for the Cleveland Browns?
It’s hard to say for sure, but the Browns seem committed to giving Mayfield another shot in 2021. If he can improve on his inconsistent play from the past few seasons, he could be the long-term solution.