The Cleveland Browns may have the best roster in the NFL. With high-level starters all over their starting 22 and depth at some of the most important positions, that argument has been made by many in the media.
In the end, all that matters is what happens on the field. The NFL has seen very talented teams fall apart for a myriad of reasons including coaching, injuries, fit and egos. The Browns have a good coaching staff, the talent that seems to fit together and very little concern when it comes to egos, despite some very big personalities.
Injuries will always be the x-factor that teams have little control over.
For Cleveland, the revamped defense will be a storyline for 2021. With new starters all over the field, can the defense do enough to make things easier on the high-powered offense? With all the names and additions, can they be even more than just the middle of the pack?
Of offense, can the Browns continue to ride the wave of improvement shown in the second half of last season? Will Baker Mayfield be able to take the next step to superstardom?
It is the returning-from-injury Odell Beckham Jr. that could decide just how far the Browns can go. While the defensive improvements will be helpful, Beckham has the ability to turn the Browns good offense into a great one. With Kansas City, Buffalo and Baltimore, among others, to contend with in the AFC, a revitalized Beckham would allow the offense to keep up with those high powered groups says Pro Football Focus:
“If Odell can return to form, this team could compete with Kansas City”
Is OBJ the key to Cleveland’s championship hopes? pic.twitter.com/X0uHH9Axlv
— PFF (@PFF) August 2, 2021
Cleveland’s chances rely on a lot of players and good coaching but is Beckham’s return to form the key to their Super Bowl aspirations?
