After a disappointing start to the 2024 NFL season with a home loss to the Dallas Cowboys, the Cleveland Browns found a way to bounce back in Week 2.
On the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Browns fought for a hard-earned victory, even as familiar issues with their offense persisted.
Veteran tight end David Njoku, a key piece of Cleveland’s offensive puzzle, has been sidelined with an ankle injury. What initially appeared to be a minor issue is now turning into a lingering problem.
Without Njoku, the Browns have struggled to find consistency in their passing attack, a weakness that was glaringly evident both in the loss to the Cowboys and in the Week 2 win over the Jaguars.
In Jacksonville, quarterback Deshaun Watson once again found himself carrying much of the offensive load, including rushing for Cleveland’s only offensive touchdown in the first quarter. While Watson’s versatility as a dual-threat quarterback adds an element of unpredictability to the Browns’ offense, his ability to single-handedly propel the team to victory remains questionable.
The passing game has yet to find its rhythm, and without it, Cleveland’s potential for success in a highly competitive AFC may be in jeopardy.
The absence of a productive passing attack, especially with Njoku sidelined, has become the central storyline for the Browns’ season. Despite the talent and expectations surrounding this team, the inability to consistently move the ball through the air could limit their ability to compete at a high level.
The Week 3 matchup against the New York Giants offers the Browns a potential respite. The Giants have struggled mightily, and Cleveland’s defense will likely have the upper hand in that contest.
However, the offense needs to prove it can deliver, even against a weaker opponent, particularly with Njoku officially ruled out by Doug Rush of FanSided.
In his absence, the Browns will once again turn to Jordan Akins at tight end.
Akins contributed one catch for 10 yards in the win over Jacksonville but will need to step up his involvement in the passing game if the Browns are to find more balance on offense. Though the running game and Watson’s mobility are strengths, a reliable aerial attack is essential to keeping opposing defenses honest.
Week 3 will be a crucial test for Cleveland. If the offense can’t find its footing against the Giants, concerns will grow louder, and the Browns will face mounting pressure to solve their passing issues.
A team with playoff aspirations must evolve beyond one-dimensional play, and the Browns’ ability to do that will likely determine their fate this season.
If Cleveland can emerge from Week 3 with not just a win but an improved offensive performance, they’ll have taken an important step toward becoming a legitimate contender in the AFC. If not, the team may need to reevaluate its strategy, personnel, or both to avoid falling short of its 2024 goals.
