標籤: Browns

The Cleveland Browns have one of the most intriguing quarterback rooms in the NFL at the moment, making for an interesting position battle that will last all summer. While NFL training camp is still a few months away, it appears the Browns have an early leader in the quarterback competition.

during an appearance on sports center This weekend, ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that Deshaun Watson has “hit it out” with Browns head coach Todd Monken and some around the league believe he could win the starting job.

“He’s already been a factor on the practice field. I’m told he’s worked with Todd Monken, who has an offensive concept, some elements that Watson has run in the past and has gotten the best of them…Talking to people around the league, he believes Watson can ultimately earn this job.”

Jeremy Fowler on Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns QB competition

Watson, who turns 31 in September, last played in the regular season on Oct. 20, 2024. He has recovered from two Achilles tears and it appears his NFL career is in danger of being over by 2025.

This set the stage for Shadure Sanders, who was viewed as the early favorite to be named the Browns’ starting quarterback in 2026. Although he did not play well in his rookie season, posting an 18.9 ESPN QBR with a 7-10 TD-INT line, there was optimism he would improve with a revamped supporting cast in Cleveland.

However, Fowler’s reporting supports what Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot has said in recent weeks. In late April, she wrote for Cleveland.com that Watson had the “inside track” to winning the contest.

Regardless of who is named the Browns’ starting quarterback for Week 1, we’ll likely see both Watson and Sanders on the field in 2026. Given how both of them have performed in Cleveland, there’s also a real possibility that Dillon Gabriel will get some opportunities this fall.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

It seems Deion Sanders is very upset that the NFL teams that drafted their top two players from Colorado last year didn’t seek his input on how to best utilize him.

Most football fans are well aware of the fact that Sanders has a very high opinion of himself. He’s a rare two-pro sport athlete who went from being an eight-time Pro Bowler to a Hall of Famer in the NFL and one of, if not the, greatest cornerback of all-time.

Sanders has also built a solid resume as a coach in the college ranks and has helped put Colorado back on the map as a notable program. His greatest success came when he led the Buffaloes to a 9–4 record and his son Shedure Sanders and two-way star Travis Hunter played huge roles in that. Unsurprisingly, both were drafted last year, with the latter being a first-round selection.

However, both of them struggled in their rookie seasons. And it seems Sanders feels it could have been avoided, and would have been poised for an even better sophomore season, if the teams that drafted him, the Cleveland Browns and Jacksonville Jaguars, had asked for his input on how to best utilize him.

Deion Sanders on not getting Browns’ opinion: ‘I don’t understand it’

“I want to meet him,” Sanders told Garrett Bush about new Browns head coach Todd Monken. “Because I think it’s important that as a coach, not as a father, I can tell him some things about [Shedeur]How to take it forward? I wasn’t asked this a year ago. I don’t understand this.

He added, “Even a guy like Travis Hunter is being drafted to Jacksonville, and I’ve had him for the last three years.” “Don’t you think you’d want to talk to me to tell me, to ask me how – what pushes him forward and what holds him back, and what else, like, wouldn’t you like to know?”

Sanders makes a reasonable case. He will know those two players as well as anyone and his insight can be helpful in setting plans for those two players. However, it may be further evidence that Sanders’ adventurous personality has not been welcomed in some NFL circles that the Browns and Jaguars passed up those opportunities.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Even if Deshaun Watson has a big bounceback season in 2026, a top NFL insider claims there is no chance the Cleveland Browns will try to re-sign him.

Frustratingly for Browns fans, it is very likely that Watson will be the team’s starting quarterback this season. This thought sends a shiver down the spine of Cleveland supporters as the three-time Pro Bowl has been a complete disaster for the franchise.

After arriving in 2022 with a fully guaranteed contract worth $230 million, Watson has played only 19 games and missed all of the 2025 season recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon a year ago. Still, when he played, he looked like a shell of the player fans had seen with the Houston Texans. Posting a 9-10 record as a starter and 19 touchdowns to 12 interceptions.

Despite a horrific sexual assault scandal, the Browns took a huge risk by trading for Watson. The risk didn’t pay off and actually backfired on him because his contract was a prop on his payroll and not tradable.

Browns unlikely to re-sign Deshaun Watson after bounce back season

Still, due to Cleveland’s weak QB room, Watson has a strong chance to be new head coach Todd Monken’s choice to be his Week 1 starter. While it’s not expected, it’s not impossible that Watson will have a great season in 2026. He is still only 30 years old, and the team’s new system could help him recapture his Pro Bowl form.

So, does this mean the Browns could re-sign Deshaun Watson if he performs well next season? Not a chance, claims ESPN’s Dan Graziano.

Rest easy, Browns fans. 2026 may be a big year for Deshaun Watson, but it will be his last year in Cleveland.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The life of former Cleveland Browns No. 1 pick Johnny Manziel took another strange turn this week.

Manziel has one of the strangest stories in the history of pro sports. In 2012, the Texas native took college football by storm with one of the best freshman seasons of all-time. In his first year at Texas A&M, he was not only All-American and SEC Offensive Player of the Year, but also the first freshman to win the “Johnny Football” Heisman Trophy.

He completed 69.9% of his passes as a sophomore, throwing for 4,114 yards, rushing for 759 more and scoring 46 total touchdowns. Despite being only 6-foot-1 and 210 pounds, his spirited play led to him being taken 22nd overall in the 2014 NFL Draft by the Browns. Then things went downhill rapidly.

A wild party life and severe lack of dedication during game week quickly proved that the star, barely out of his teens, was not ready for the NFL. Then, when domestic violence allegations surfaced in 2016, the Heisman Trophy winner was out of the league after just two seasons.

Since opting out, he has played for the Canadian Football League (CFL), Alliance of American Football (AAF) and then Fan Controlled Football (FCF) a few years ago. He has been unable to recapture the success or money-making opportunities he enjoyed a decade ago.

Johnny Manziel set to do boxing bout at UFC Apex this month

That’s why he’s started venturing away from the field, including owning a bar, podcasting, and reality TV. Well, it looks like he is planning a comeback to sports soon, but not football. According to ESPN’s Andreas Hell, he will instead step into the boxing ring to take on the impressive Bob Menery inside the UFC Apex later this month (May 23).

“The fight will be promoted by Kik streamer Adin Ross’ brand Risk Promotions, which is known for pitting celebrities against content creators in boxing matches,” reports Hale.

UFC CEO Dana White has shown great interest in the fight because of his ongoing feud with Menary. While this should probably be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, in the era of Jake Paul being a star in boxing, it wouldn’t be surprising if this is the beginning of a new and unexpected career for the 33-year-old.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The 2026 NFL Draft has ended and while it’s technically too early to declare which teams performed best before these players take the field, it’s always a fun exercise. It’s even more interesting this year because the 2026 draft class was not viewed as particularly strong.

Let’s quickly take a look at our list of the best 2026 NFL Draft classes.

New York Giants

When you have a pair of top-10 selections, it certainly helps to be recognized as one of the best classes from the 2026 NFL Draft. Of course, this came at the cost of the New York Giants trading All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. That said, what happened in Round 1 justified it. Arvell Reese was arguably a top-three prospect in this class, and he is a more well-rounded off-ball linebacker than the Giants’ previous first-round selection Abdul Carter. New York is getting someone with an All-Pro ceiling, and even a 90th percentile result is a perennial Pro Bowl selection who can make an impact on all three downs. With the 10th overall pick, the Giants upgraded their offensive line with Francis Mauigoa. He can be an excellent starter at guard, and by kicking him inside, his timeline to becoming an above average player is accelerated.

We also really liked what New York did the other day. Colton Hood was a marginal talent in the first round, and the Giants took him with the 37th overall pick. He projects to be a quality No. 2 cornerback for a long time, and we’re especially excited to see how defensive coordinator Denard Wilson maximizes his instincts and press-man ability. To the Giants’ credit, they also found a nice complementary receiver to Malik Nabors in Notre Dame’s Malachi Fields (74th overall). He’s not a great athlete, but what matters is he’s 6 feet 4 inches tall, with a big catch radius and the ability to fight through contact. There’s a very good chance that New York came out with four starters, two on each side of the ball. This is a victory.

RELATED: Highlights from Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft

Baltimore Ravens

It’s safe to say that the Baltimore Ravens are happy that the Max Crosby trade just fell through (on their own account). Holding the 14th overall pick, the front office desperately needed help on the interior offensive line with Penn State’s Olivavega Ioane. Using a first-round pick on guard isn’t a “sexy” option, but he is one of the safest prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class with a high chance of becoming an above-average starter for the Ravens.

On Day 2, some good luck occurred for Baltimore when leading tackle Zion Young slipped to 45th overall. A consensus top-40 prospect, Young offers the length-strength-intangibility combo that coaches love in an edge rusher. He can help establish the edge against the run immediately, and he has a long-term path to becoming a very effective three-down player. At No. 80 overall, Baltimore handed Lamar Jackson a pass-catching magnet in 6-foot-4 receiver Ja’Coby Lane. He’ll never be great at getting away from the defense, but the Ravens offense really needed someone who could come up with contested catches and make an impact inside the red zone. To complete that selection, Baltimore added receiver Elijah Sarratt on Day 3 (115th overall). The former Indiana standout isn’t a great athlete, but he knows how to use his 6-foot-2 body to beat corners and get his hands on the football. After a difficult free-agency period, Baltimore hit it out of the park with this draft.

READ MORE: Fantasy football analysis from Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft

New York Jets

What a strange world we live in where both the Giants and New York Jets are listed among the best 2026 NFL Draft classes. It certainly helps that having three first-round picks is the result of a teardown, but it really feels like the Jets front office has made very good connections with all three swings. David Bailey offers a Pro Bowl ceiling, and he could be even more impressive given the additional changes New York has already made to its front seven this offseason. The Jets then landed their top-rated pass-catcher in Kenyon Saadiq, whose athleticism and hands gave him a chance to become one of the five best tight ends in the NFL. Rounding out Round 1, New York selected wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. There are legitimate similarities to Deebo Samuel, at least in some of the ways he can be used and what he does as a receiver with the football in his hands.

The impact on cornerback D’Angelo Ponds is obvious: He’s 5 feet 8 inches tall. It is also undisputed that if he had been 5 feet 11 inches tall he would have been in the top 20. Ponds is a very good athlete with a high football IQ and tenacity that head coach Aaron Glenn will love. New York has done a really great job retooling their defense this season, and this draft class has shown a huge commitment to building a better supporting cast for the franchise quarterback heading into the 2027 NFL Draft.

RELATED: Winners, losers from Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft

cleveland browns

If we were ranking the best 2026 NFL Draft classes, the Cleveland Browns might be in the No. 1 spot. Landing a franchise quarterback was not possible, so general manager Andrew Berry focused on building the infrastructure for his future face of the franchise. Spencer Fano will immediately become a plug-and-play starter at left tackle for the Browns, which is another step toward dismantling last season’s disastrous offensive line. Cleveland then used their next two picks on Casey Concepcion (24th overall) and Denzel Boston (39th overall), two receivers whose games complement each other perfectly. An apt comparison for this duo is the skill sets that Jaylen Waddle and Courtland Sutton bring to the Denver Broncos’ passing game.

This is already a strong start to the draft. Cleveland then got draft-day steal Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, a first-round talent at safety who inexplicably fell to 58th overall. He can fly all the way down to attack anything in sight, and as a rookie he will play quite a few games inside the box. Berry then added more depth to the offensive line, grabbing swing tackle Austin Barber (86th overall) and interior lineman Parker Brailsford. This feels like an A-minus class for the Browns.

RELATED: Winners, losers from Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft

kansas city chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs faced some skepticism for their decision to trade FLR All-American cornerback Mansur Delaney. In our view, you should be prepared to pay a little more to make sure you get a player you think can be a star. Delaney, the top cornerback in the 2026 NFL Draft class, could be a true No. 1 corner and given Steve Spagnuolo’s track record of developing defensive backs, he could be a lockdown perimeter defender. Obviously, given Trent McDuffie’s limitations playing on the boundary, Kansas City may be better off moving forward with this change.

In addition to that selection, Kansas City’s subsequent first-round selection of defensive tackle Peter Woods could yield massive returns a few years from now. He was a lot more show than substance at Clemson, but those peak moments were the type of performances you only see in top-10 prospects. He will also get guidance from Chris Jones. Smartly, the Chiefs continued to prioritize their defense with the selections of Mason Thomas (40th overall pick) and Jadon Canady. Thomas is on the small side as an edge rusher, but a great defensive coordinator can find ways to take advantage of his get-off, strength, motor and understanding of how to win with leverage. Kansas. As for Kennedy, it’s not hard to see him developing as a rookie for the Chiefs. The Chiefs draft class should be vastly improved defensively.

buffalo bill

Coming into the 2026 NFL Draft, there was a lot of talk about this year’s class not being top-heavy, but it did have some depth in terms of role players and upside. The Buffalo Bills had limited chances to take some of those risks until Brandon Beane was traded out of Round 1 altogether. The strategy was successful and Buffalo was well prepared for both the next season and the future.

With their top pick (35th overall), Buffalo made TJ Parker, a great player who would have been a reasonable selection 15 picks earlier. Late in the second round, Beane brought in cornerback Davison Igbinosun, whose length-athleticism combo is perfect for molding into a CB2. While he’s a project that needs to be cleaned up on penalties and footwork, Bills defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard is a great teacher.

On Day 3, the Bills coaching staff landed a new project offensive lineman in Jude Bourrie (102nd selection overall), who could be a swing tackle and develop into a future starter. Skylar Bell, a 5-foot-11 receiver from UConn, bears some resemblance to Khalil Shakir and projects as a useful No. 3 receiver. Buffalo then got more good value with its later picks, TCU linebacker Caleb Elarms-Orr and safety Jalon Kilgore. While there is a greater chance that they will not be successful and have a short NFL career, they also offer an extremely high ceiling.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

Claiming the sixth and 24th overall selections in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns are in an advantageous position on April 23. They are one of five teams with two first-round selections. Still, even after Day 1, the Browns still have a chance to add some potential starters, as they also have the 39th, 70th, and 107th overall picks, for a total of nine picks.

Browns general manager Andrew Berry will have plenty of opportunities to address Cleveland’s biggest needs. But some weaknesses are more glaring than others, and the Browns are expected to address them soon.

According to NFL insider Tony Pauline of Essential Sports, “AB wants a quicker O-line and has been telling people that since last season.”

Several offensive tackle prospects are projected to be selected in the first round, and with so many top pass-rushers available at the top, the Browns are expected to be the first team to select a lineman. That means they’ll have to take first look at the top offensive lineman on their draft board, whether it’s someone like Fano or Francis Mauigoa, or another prospect that Cleveland feels can handle at left tackle, remains to be seen.

Pauline’s sources say the Browns also will not trade All-Pro pass-rusher Myles Garrett this offseason. With Garrett under contract through 2029, there is no incentive for Cleveland to part with a “generational talent” who has broken the NFL’s single-season sack record.

RELATED: 2026 NFL mock draft: Trades that captured the first round of the NFL draft

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

克利夫兰布朗队选择不增加 NFL 自由球员的四分卫阵容，而是选择了谢德尔·桑德斯、德肖恩·沃森和狄龙·加布里埃尔三人组。虽然 2026 年 NFL 选秀的情况可能会发生变化，但布朗队 2026 年的首发四分卫有一位早期的领跑者。

《The Athletic》的扎克·杰克逊写道，他感觉“比以往任何时候都更强大”，桑德斯是今年夏天克利夫兰首发四分卫比赛的热门人选。

相关：克利夫兰布朗队总经理讨论 2026 年赛季的 QB 计划

这并不是说这份工作将交给职业碗四分卫。杰克逊回应了球队公开表示的观点，即布朗队将在桑德斯和沃森之间进行一场“真正的比赛”，以确定谁将成为首发四分卫。

自从被聘为布朗队主教练以来，托德·蒙肯除了支持桑德斯之外什么也没提供，并对这位二年级四分卫表达了极大的信心。虽然沃森曾经是高端首发，但最后一次出现是在 2020 年。

自从抵达克利夫兰以来，沃森在 557 次传球尝试中仅完成了 61.2%，TD-INT 比为 19-12，传球评分为 80.7，被擒杀 70 次，在 19 场首发中场均传球码数仅为 177.1 码。他现在正从连续的跟腱断裂中恢复过来，他的最后一次真人表演将于 2024 年 10 月 20 日举行。

对于布朗队来说，认为桑德斯提供了最高的上限是现实的，即使他的上限可能只是联盟平均四分卫。由于沃森正处于合同年，2026 年的工资帽将达到 4495.6 万美元，克利夫兰可以安然度过这笔交易的最后一个赛季，然后最终在 2027 年摆脱 NFL 历史上最糟糕的交易。

马特·约翰逊 (Matt Johnson) 是《Sportsnaut》杂志《NFL》和《大学橄榄球》的高级编辑。他的工作包括每周 NFL 和大学……有关马特·约翰逊的更多信息

克利夫蘭布朗隊選擇不增加 NFL 自由球員的四分衛陣容，而是選擇了謝德爾桑德斯、德肖恩沃森和狄龍加布里埃爾三人組。雖然 2026 年 NFL 選秀的情況可能會發生變化，但布朗隊 2026 年的首發四分衛有一位早期的領跑者。

《The Athletic》的紮克傑克森寫道，他感覺“比以往任何時候都更強大”，桑德斯是今年夏天克利夫蘭首發四分衛比賽的熱門人選。

相關：克利夫蘭布朗隊總經理討論 2026 年賽季的 QB 計劃

這並不是說這份工作將交給職業碗四分衛。傑克遜回應了球隊公開表示的觀點，即布朗隊將在桑德斯和沃森之間進行一場“真正的比賽”，以確定誰將成為首發四分衛。

自從被聘為布朗隊主教練以來，托德·蒙肯除了支持桑德斯之外什麼也沒提供，並對這位二年級四分衛表達了極大的信心。雖然沃森曾經是高端首發，但最後一次出現是在 2020 年。

自從抵達克利夫蘭以來，沃森在 557 次傳球嘗試中僅完成了 61.2%，TD-INT 比為 19-12，傳球評分為 80.7，被擒殺 70 次，在 19 場首發中場均傳球碼數僅為 177.1 碼。他現在正從連續的跟腱斷裂中恢復過來，他的最後一次真人表演將於 2024 年 10 月 20 日舉行。

對於布朗隊來說，認為桑德斯提供了最高的上限是現實的，即使他的上限可能只是聯盟平均四分衛。由於沃森正處於合約年，2026 年的工資帽將達到 4495.6 萬美元，克利夫蘭可以安然度過這筆交易的最後一個賽季，然後最終在 2027 年擺脫 NFL 歷史上最糟糕的交易。

馬特·約翰遜 (Matt Johnson) 是《Sportsnaut》雜誌《NFL》和《大學橄欖球》的高級編輯。他的工作包括每週 NFL 和大學……有關馬特·約翰遜的更多信息

A major mock draft has linked the Cleveland Browns to a hidden gem game breaker with their second pick in the first round of this month’s NFL Draft.

Outside of three seasons with 10 or more wins, the Browns have been quite disappointing over the last 20 years. In 2026, they will have a new coaching regime led by former Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken. However, he and the rest of the Cleveland brain trust need to make the most of the rare opportunity to select two players in the top 25.

If this were next year, the Browns would likely use their pick at six on the top quarterback prospect. However, there is only one unquestioned first-round QB in this year’s prospect class in Fernando Mendoza, and he is projected to go first overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. This means the organization will likely focus on taking the best player available or improving the offensive line and wide receiver corps.

On Wednesday, The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman released his latest NFL mock draft, and the college football insider predicted — based on recent information from “coaching, scouting and agent sources” — that the team will use its first pick in Round 1 on Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa.

Cleveland Browns linked to Casey Concepcion with second pick in Round 1

This will enable prompt verification of a requirement from the Board. But then who might they make their next selection at 24th overall? Well, it looks like Feldman may have landed a potential hidden gem talent that may still be available at the end of Round 1.

“There’s a big need for a receiver to help fuel a questionable offense. Casey Concepcion’s wheels should help a lot,” Feldman said of the Texas A&M star. “This guy has great playmaking ability. He’s stronger than you think at 6-0, 196. In 2023, he was the ACC Rookie of the Year at NC State, with 839 receiving yards and 320 rushing yards, averaging nearly eight yards per carry.

He said, “Last season at A&M, he averaged 14 yards per offensive touch. As a punt returner he is a terror for opponents, averaging 18.2 yards and two carries for a touchdown in 2025.”

Feldman also said the junior would have moved up in Round 1, but big inning drops are a problem against his game right now. Last season he had seven. Still, he could fill two big needs in 2026 by providing a big-play threat in the pass game as well as a game breaker on special teams.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

Is this the offseason that the Cleveland Browns finally trade Myles Garrett? Those Garrett rumors resurface every year. After all, he’s one of the best players in the NFL, yet Garrett’s Browns have only reached the playoffs twice in his nine-year career. He deserves better.

The Browns recently restructured his contract, which, for some reason, has led to speculation that Cleveland is thinking about trading him again. While that’s not the case, the Browns did this simply to create more cap space, it got people thinking.

Recently, two NFL analysts Sports IllustratedConnor Orr and Albert Breer lay out their case for why the Browns would be better off trading the five-time All-Pro defender.

This isn’t the first time Breyer has advocated for the Browns to trade their best player. He also previously advised them to trade Garrett at last year’s trade deadline. Obviously, Brown disagreed.

Garrett, 30, is coming off a record-breaking season with 23 sacks. Despite his great age, one could argue that his value has never been higher. If the Raiders can get two first-round picks for Maxx Crosby, what could the Browns get for an even better player?

While most needy teams have already committed to other pass-rushers, there is always at least one that doesn’t end up being their desired draft target. In other words, perhaps the Garrett trade will be revisited later, but our guess is the Browns have already moved on from those discussions.

RELATED: Cleveland Browns trade idea nets young Pro Bowl receiver

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

After being selected with the 144th overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft last year, Cleveland Browns quarterback Chedure Sanders finally earned the starting job and was selected to the Pro Bowl. However, recent comments from the front office suggest it could be an uphill battle to reclaim the starting job in 2026.

Speaking to reporters, including Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com, Browns general manager Andrew Berry said it is “completely realistic” that the club will spend one of its picks in the 2026 NFL Draft on a quarterback.

RELATED: Cleveland Browns trade proposal nets team’s top WR

“Our inclination would be that if we add somebody to the quarterback room, it would be somebody that’s probably a young player. But I can’t tell for sure because I don’t know what happens over the next few weeks.

Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry on potentially adding a QB

He also acknowledged that he has met with former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson and would like to spend more time meeting who many view as the second-best passer in the class.

Some believe Simpson will be a first-round pick in April. There is a possibility he could be available to Cleveland with the 24th overall pick, which they acquired from the Jacksonville Jaguars, or they could move up from Round 2 (39th overall) to the end of Round 1 to try to land Simpson.

RELATED: Latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft

One thing Berry made very clear is that whichever young quarterback Cleveland brings in, he will “compete” for the starting job. If the Browns see someone whose skill set translates immediately to playing in Todd Monken’s offense, they are willing to draft him and allow him to compete for the starting quarterback in 2026.

This isn’t the only bad sign for Sanders’ hopes of becoming the Browns’ starting quarterback this season. If Berry proves himself performance-wise and outperforms Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, Berry would not rule out signing Deshaun Watson to a new deal.

While Sanders finished ahead of Gabriel on the Browns’ depth chart at the end of the season, a change at guard looks very likely. Watson will be given a real chance to earn the job, and it now seems plausible that another young quarterback could be added through the 2026 NFL Draft.

Just two months after Sanders was named to the Pro Bowl and a few weeks after his connection with Monken, it seems likely the second-year quarterback won’t see much of the field this fall.

Matt Johnson is the senior NFL and college football editor for Sportsknot. His work including the weekly NFL and college… More about Matt Johnson

The Cleveland Browns are in the midst of an organizational overhaul. They have already moved on from two-time NFL Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski and hired Todd Monken to replace him. Despite having three QBs on the roster, the Browns also do not have a franchise quarterback.

Still, to properly evaluate Cleveland’s quarterback situation, they may want to strengthen the foundation around him. Whether it’s offensive line, pass-catcher, or both, Brown has a lot of unproven upside. They also have two first-round picks, one or possibly two of which could be used at respective positions.

However, recently, Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski had another idea. Why not try to trade for a proven talent who is already an NFL veteran? He suggests that the Browns trade wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. to the Jaguars.

While trading for Thomas, a one-time Pro Bowler who is still only 23 years old, might seem like an ideal solution in Cleveland, there is no guarantee Jacksonville wants to trade him. In fact, more reports suggest that the 23rd overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft isn’t actually even available.

Thomas started 14 games last season, recording 707 receiving yards and two touchdowns. A year ago, Thomas started all 17 games while recording 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns. If he can get back to that level of production, Thomas could emerge as Cleveland’s new alpha receiver, forming a strong tandem with Jerry Jeudy.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March edition

Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

BOSTON – When Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown placed the Bill Russell Trophy above his head after being named the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, his place in franchise history was cemented. However, the all-time leading Celtic moved up to 10th on the Green team’s all-time scoring list during Wednesday night’s 120-99 win over the Golden State Warriors.

In the second quarter, Brown sank two free throws to surpass Celtics great and 1973 MVP Dave Cowens on the Giants leaderboard. The five-time All-Star now has 13,202 points in 10 seasons, trailing his fellow Celtics star Jayson Tatum by 705 points. The player right in front of the Celtics’ spectacular tandem is an almost legendary player: 11-time NBA champion Bill Russell.

“I’m very grateful,” Brown said in the locker room after his impressive milestone. “There are a lot of greats on that list that have made huge contributions to the Celtics as well as the game of basketball. So I’m very humbled and very grateful to be in the position I’m in.”

Jaylen Brown on entering the top-10 scoring list for the Celtics:

“I’m very grateful. Many of the legends on that list have made great contributions to the Celtics as well as the game of basketball.” pic.twitter.com/f49h93xmHL

– Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) 19 March 2026

Brown didn’t miss a beat to start the game, hitting back-to-back jumpers against a woefully understaffed Warriors team at TD Garden. Although the Dubs – who were without four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry due to a knee injury – tried to make it a contest, Brown and Tatum always had offensive answers. They scored a combined 56 points in the blowout (game-high 32 points from Brown and 24 points from Tatum), while no Warrior scored more than 14 points.

Tatum said of Brown’s historic run, “It just shows the dedication and commitment he has to his craft and getting better every year.” “I’ve watched him grow and get better every year over the last nine years and become the player he is today. It’s great when you get rewarded for the work you’ve done.”

During Tatum’s 62-game absence this regular season, which was the result of a diligent rehab process from an Achilles rupture, Brown paved the way for the shorthanded C. He averaged career highs practically across the board and has continued to do so since Tatum’s return on March 6.

With both Tatum and Brown starting this season, the Celtics are 5-1 and have won three in a row. And it’s no surprise that the same dynamic duo that led Boston to a championship in 2024 is aiming to do so again in 2026.

Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla said about working with Tatum and Brown, “You’re not only able to coach some of the best players in the game today, but you’re able to coach some of the best players of all time.” “so [there’s] “Just my gratitude for being able to see him.”

To put it in perspective, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown will already be the all-time leading scorers for the Magic, Pelicans, Grizzlies, Clippers, Hornets and Nets. https://t.co/FfBXc5rb5l

– Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) 19 March 2026

We need to remember what Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum accomplished

Even though the 46-23 Celtics are generally accustomed to winning, what Tatum and Brown have accomplished together is special. They would be the all-time scoring leaders of six other NBA franchises at this time and have more playoff wins than many teams.

Furthermore, they represent the Celtics well and are dedicated to Boston.

Tatum showed his commitment by attacking his difficult rehabilitation every day off the court this season, ultimately culminating in a victorious return that was well ahead of schedule. Brown, meanwhile, has further demonstrated his dedication on the court recently by having an MVP-caliber campaign when many pundits expected him to flop as part of a flawed roster.

“For Jaylen, I think the responsibility and ownership of being a Celtic and going after greatness is extremely important, it’s something he takes very seriously,” Mazzulla responded when asked about Brown entering the upper echelon of Celtics scorers. “The ability to make and participate in history is the stepping stone to [the franchise] Better than what you found.”

There’s no doubt that Tatum and Brown have changed the Celtics organization for the better, but that doesn’t mean they’re satisfied. They want more, and “more” will come in the form of a second championship ring this June.

“I felt like I could always be one of the top players in the world if given the opportunity, and I think I’ve got to show that this season,” Brown said after Monday night’s 41-point loss to the Phoenix Suns. “The focus now is on getting ready for the playoffs.”

BOSTON – “MVP, MVP, MVP.” That’s what Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown heard as he approached the free throw line in the fourth quarter of the Green team’s 120-112 win over the Phoenix Suns on Monday night. Brown delighted the home crowd at TD Garden with a game-high 41 points – on 50% shooting – along with five assists and four rebounds.

The five-time All-Star played tirelessly against the Suns, constantly attacking the rim and forcing the referees to make call after call. This offensive aggression resulted in a career-high 21 free throws and allowed Brown to take all the MVP cheers while standing alone at the charity stripe.

“It’s pretty cool, not gonna lie,” Brown said of the MVP chants he received. “It’s just amazing to be at this point in my career and be able to get that love from the fans.”

Loud MVP chant for Jaylen Brown: pic.twitter.com/2PVsLxBjcH

– Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) 17 March 2026

Brown deserved every scream from the Boston faithful, as he recorded a game-high 18 points in the final frame alone. He was also responsible for the biggest momentum shift of the contest, which came when he cleanly stole the ball from Suns star Devin Booker, giving an easy lead to Celtics star Jayson Tatum on the other end with 3:05 remaining in the fourth quarter. This limited the Suns’ lead to just one and forced a timeout – they never recovered and the Celtics went on a 10–1 run to close out the win.

“I think even now over the last few games, I’ve adjusted my game, and I’m still getting better at my ability to make plays, seeing the floor, taking my time, all those things, still continuing to improve,” Brown said at the podium.

While Brown thoroughly enjoyed the love he earned from Celtics fans on Monday, he may have enjoyed even more the support he received on a cold Sunday morning on the streets of South Boston.

The longtime Celtics participated in Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade for the first time and were surrounded by fans that exceeded the capacity of the TD Garden.

“I was at Southee’s yesterday and I got some MVP chants,” Brown recalled. “I think it might have been a little nicer.”

Jaylen Brown joins Southee St. Patrick’s Day Parade ☘️ pic.twitter.com/p3vBPLwn4u

– Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) 15 March 2026

Although Brown is being serenaded with MVP chants throughout Beantown, that doesn’t mean he’ll be taking home the Michael Jordan Trophy. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the favorite and his Oklahoma City Thunder have the advantage of having the best record in the NBA.

This will likely keep Brown from becoming the first Celtics MVP in four decades, yet he still has some history to chase. After lighting up the sun, the Georgia native is just 23 points away from entering the top-10 of the Celtics’ all-time scoring list. With a 23-point outing, he would be right behind his partner in offense Tatum on the historical leaderboard.

Tatum said of his on-court partnership with Brown, “We can count on each other in the biggest moments, the biggest games, the biggest situations, we’ve been through them all together.”

Following the 45-23 Celtics are the injury-hit Golden State Warriors, whom they host on Wednesday night during a primetime showdown. And while this contest likely won’t provide Brown with a big enough stage to further his MVP case, it will give him a chance to continue his stellar season and keep the Celtics in contention for the playoffs.

“I’m proud of my team, I’m proud of myself,” he said. “I always felt that if given the chance, I could become one of the top players in the world and I think I have to demonstrate that this season. Now my focus is on preparing for the playoffs.”

Jaylen Brown had another strong performance for the Boston Celtics as they defeated the Phoenix Suns 120-112 on Monday at the TD Garden.

He and Devin Booker were face to face, but the final decision was Brown’s. He scored 41 points on 10 of 20 shooting and added four rebounds and five assists. Brown made 21 attempts from the free-throw line, and nearly outscored the Suns on his own.

In a video posted by Daniel Donabedian of ClutchPoints, he acknowledged the “MVP” chants he received from the crowd. He also shared this similar experience When he went to South Boston for St. Patrick’s Day.

“I was at Southee’s last night or yesterday, and I got some ‘MVP’ chants. I think that might have been a little nice,” the five-time All-Star said.

Brown, 29, who grew up in Georgia, said he enjoyed celebrating the special day for the first time.

Brown said, “I didn’t know it was a big deal. It felt like there were a million people there. It was cold, it was early in the morning, but it felt like the whole town was drunk.”

“I had a good time, just going out and saying hello to people from Boston and things like that. It’s great. Plus, I have some Irish in my blood. It made it more surreal.”

Jaylen Brown on MVP chant starting tonight:

“It’s awesome.”

And how was his parade experience in Southie yesterday:

“It felt as if the whole city was drunk.” pic.twitter.com/4iqjPrqpY1

– Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) 17 March 2026

The one-time Finals MVP has made himself a Beantown darling since the Celtics selected him as the third overall pick in 2016.

If he leads the Celtics to their second championship in three seasons, of course, the entire city of Boston will be even more intoxicated.

Jayson Tatum criticized officiating after the Boston Celtics’ 125-116 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night, calling the refs “trigger happy” after teammate Jaylen Brown was ejected early in the game.

Brown was ejected after receiving two technical fouls during the contest, limiting the Celtics star to just 15 minutes of action. Tatum, who recently returned from an Achilles tear last spring, addressed the situation after the game.

“I disagree with that. You know, the NBA makes a big deal about prime time games and stars playing and being available… He was definitely pushed and maybe the first tech was necessary, the emotions were too high.”

Tatum continued to raise questions over the timing of his ejection during the nationally televised matchup.

“National TV game, the two best teams in the league and you make a big deal about the stars playing and you’re happy to take someone out of the game. I disagree with that.”

Brown’s frustration began after a sequence in which he believed he was fouled out of bounds by Spurs guard Stephen Cassel. After the game, Brown confronted crew chief Tyler Ford by pointing at him, causing the first technical foul.

“National TV game, the two best teams in the league and you make a big deal about the stars playing and you’re happy to take someone out of the game. I disagree with that.”

Jayson Tatum on Jaylen Brown’s ejection at Celtics-Spurs last nightpic.twitter.com/dzbBeYlm9v https://t.co/CjynsnpBNR

– ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 11 March 2026

The Celtics guard remained visibly upset and argued with officials as teammates attempted to calm him down. Umpire Suyyash Mehta later assessed a second technical foul, resulting in Brown being sent off.

Officials explain Jaylen Brown’s removal because Jayson Tatum disagreed

Brown finished the night with eight points, seven assists, two rebounds and one steal while making 4 of 8 shots from the field.

Ford later explained the officiating team’s decision in the league’s pool report.

“(The first technical was) for aggressively gesturing and using profanity and outrage without a call,” Ford said in the pool report, via NBA insider Brett Siegel for ClutchPoints. “(The second technical was called because) he aggressively approached a game official, pointing and using profanity.”

Tatum, playing his third game back from injury, led Boston with 24 points while adding five rebounds, two assists and two steals. The 27-year-old shot 10 of 24 from the field and 4 of 14 from three-point range in 27 minutes.

Despite Tatum’s efforts, Boston was unable to overcome Brown’s absence for most of the game. The loss dropped the Celtics to 43–22 on the season.

Boston will try to regroup on Thursday night when it concludes its three-game road trip against the Oklahoma City Thunder, who enter the matchup with a 51-15 record. Tipoff is scheduled for 9:30 pm ET on Prime Video.

Boston Celtics All-Star Jaylen Brown has led his team to one of the best records in the NBA this season without Jayson Tatum, which for JR Smith means this is no longer Tatum’s team. With Tatum’s potential return to the Celtics, many wonder how Boston will adjust to Jason Tatum’s midseason debut.

while brown have been leaders For the Celtics this season, that’s been their title for Jaylen for years, Smith said, according to To The Baha.

“It’s always been his team. Jaylen Brown. He’s the leader. Isn’t he? First of all, he protects everybody. It’s always been his team. It’s his team,” Smith said. “To the players, I’m sure it’s their team; to everyone else in the media on the outside, it’s Jayson Tatum’s team. That’s the way they want to show it. Internally, it’s Jaylen Brown’s team.

“Jaylen Brown is the leader of that team. 100 percent on and off the court. Fact. I guarantee you he commands more film sessions, practices than JT. He’s the leader of that team.”

“It’s always been his team. Jaylen Brown. He’s the leader. Isn’t he? … To the players, I’m pretty sure it’s his team; to everybody else in the media on the outside, it’s Jayson Tatum’s team.”

– JR Smith 🤔

(via @ToTheBaha)pic.twitter.com/mnELzcwFk9

– ClutchPoints (@clutchpoints) 4 March 2026

In Brown and Tatum’s second NBA Finals appearance in two years, Brown won the 2024 Finals MVP award after capturing his first title.

NBA insider says Jayson Tatum will need to adjust to new Celtics

NBA insider Chris Mannix believes the Celtics are Jaylen Brown’s team who will have to accommodate Jayson Tatum if he returns from his nearly season-long Achilles injury. Tatum has to do it slowly work your way back Mannix said, according to FanDuel TV’s Run It Back, linking up with the Browns and the Celtics.

“I think [Jayson] Tatum knows that by coming back he is stepping into Jaylen Brown’s team. “Brown is a top-five, top-six MVP candidate this year,” Mannix said. “He’s put this team on his back offensively.” And Tatum will have to find a way to fit in.

This is Jaylen Brown’s team now 👀

With the pending return of Jayson Tatum, @SIChrisMannix I don’t think there is a chemistry problem.

Tatum knows this is Brown’s team. pic.twitter.com/wgMkvmJHDF

– Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) 4 March 2026

In 54 games played, Brown is averaging 29 points per game, 7.1 rebounds and 5 assists per game with one steal. He is shooting 48% from the field and 34.9% from three-point range. He has been the catalyst for the Celtics’ success as they have kept themselves in the news as NBA title contenders.

New Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken takes over a roster that already has three quarterbacks on the roster. Still, neither of them may be the team’s starter in 2026. Between Deshaun Watson, Shadure Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, could the Browns already have their franchise QB?

Monken made it clear during his press conference at the NFL Scouting Combine that the Browns want to give their quarterbacks a chance to unlock a new level of performance with his guidance. That includes Watson, who is entering the final year of a five-year, $230 million contract.

While Monken is impressed by the qualities of the three-time Pro Bowl QB, he called Sanders’ playmaking ability “elite” while speaking at the NFL Scouting Combine on Wednesday. Monken also left the door open for Sanders, a fifth-round pick in 2025, to become the team’s starting quarterback for the first week of the 2026 season.

Monken is “hopeful” the team’s QB situation will be sorted out by training camp, so the Browns’ starter can get all the first-team reps on offense.

Still, as curious as Monken is about the current QB room, he also acknowledged that the team will do its “due diligence” in evaluating others who could join the group this offseason. After drafting one in the third round last year and another in the fifth round, would the Browns really add another rookie?

In the meantime, would they also like another veteran? Watson is a seven-year pro, and both Gabriel and Sanders gained valuable starting experience last season. Unless they find a sure-fire starter who is obviously better than all three, the Browns will be better off rotating with their crew and hoping one of them can come out of the pack.

RELATED: Cleveland Browns’ Todd Monken excited to give Deshaun Watson a fresh start

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Four years ago, the Cleveland Browns “won” the Deshaun Watson sweepstakes by agreeing to a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract with the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback. But before they could get him to sign on the dotted line, the Browns had to send three first-round picks, a third-round pick, and two fourth-round picks.

Those draft picks join DT Jordan Davis, RB Jahmir Gibbs, WR Brian Thomas, WR Jalin Hyatt, RB Damien Pierce and TE Cade Stover. It has been considered the worst trade in NFL history, which is tragic for the Browns franchise, who were already quite desperate to make such a bold move for someone they thought would be their franchise quarterback for years to come.

Still, Watson has been nothing. He has yet to start more than seven games in a season with the Browns, and has started only 19 games in three seasons in Cleveland. He has completed only 61.2% of his passes for 3,365 passing yards, 19 TDs, 12 interceptions, while leading the Browns to a 9-10 record in the process.

Now 30, Watson is in the final year of his contract, but has a cap hit of $80.7 million. Given how poorly he has played as a member of the Browns, while also considering his tremendous cap hit, some have wondered if the new coaching staff would have no interest in keeping Watson as part of the new-look QB room.

Still, according to first-year head coach Todd Monken, it couldn’t be further from the case. Rather, he seems excited for the opportunity to work with Watson, and possibly even help the QB regain his signature look from his days in a Texans uniform.

If there’s any glimmer of hope that the Browns can still get some positive production from Watson, it’s up to Monken to figure it out. If not, Watson will be a free agent at the end of the 2026 season, and then the Browns can finally move on from their biggest mistake ever. Or, maybe Watson proves everyone wrong and returns to Houston as an MVP candidate.

RELATED: Cleveland Browns hire 75-year-old former NFL head coach

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Despite an unsuccessful performance at Tennessee and being the backup in Green Bay the last two years, if teams like the Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns or Pittsburgh Steelers wanted to sign Malik Willis in free agency, it would be a ridiculous price.

While they had different results in 2025, the Dolphins, Browns and Steelers are all entering the offseason with the same issues. Figuring out who will be their starting quarterback next season.

Miami is expected to move on from Tua Tagovailoa this offseason after disappointing performances over the past two seasons and a trip to the Pro Bowl in 2023. Cleveland has options like Deshaun Watson and Shadure Sanders, but rumors suggest they will look at the QB market this offseason. Pittsburgh could run it back with Aaron Rodgers in 2026, but they need to find a long-term option at the position.

That’s why reports and speculation have linked all three to impending free agent Malik Willis. The third-round pick from the 2022 NFL Draft is viewed as the best QB available in free agency despite starting his career with the Tennessee Titans and then serving as a backup for the Green Bay Packers in 2024 and 2025.

Could Malik Willis get a deal worth more than $30 million annually?

Willis’ time in Green Bay and what he showed in limited action last season has created a lot of talk that the 26-year-old could be the next Sam Darnold or Daniel Jones. Due to the weak QB market this offseason and his untapped potential, Willis is clearly attracting a lot of interest, and it is driving up the asking price for teams that want to sign him.

As NFL insider Jordan Schultz reports, “As expected, Packers free agent QB Malik Willis is in demand, and the interested teams I spoke to at the combine in Indianapolis believe him getting at least $30 million per year is a foregone conclusion.”

A deal in the thirties would get them the same money as Darnold and Baker Mayfield. Players who proved more than enough during their careers and reached the playoffs. That’s a surprising amount of money Willis could get, but it’s the going rate for a demanding position that garners some of the biggest contracts in the NFL.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The Cleveland Browns have a new head coach, but there’s no guarantee Todd Monken will immediately get better results in his first season. Still, the Browns are taking steps to ensure Monken has experienced minds he can rely on throughout the season.

On Tuesday, ESPN’s NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that the Browns have hired 75-year-old Dom Capers to Monken’s staff. Capers will serve the team as a senior defensive assistant.

Capers has been the head coach for a total of eight seasons, split between the Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans. However, he also spent 16 seasons as an NFL defensive coordinator with the Packers, Steelers, Jaguars and Dolphins. His job as defensive coordinator moved to Green Bay in 2017.

His most recent work came with the Panthers, where he spent the last three seasons as a senior defensive assistant at Carolina. It’s the same job he’s been doing since 2019 between the Jaguars, Vikings, Lions, Broncos and Panthers. Now he’ll see if he can help Monken and defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg in 2026.

With a first-year head coach, offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator, the Browns will need help in some way or another next season, and now that plan includes Capers.

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On Sunday night in Los Angeles, the Boston Celtics silenced the home crowd with a dominant 111-89 win over the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena. The win improved Boston to 37–19, second in the East, and completed a 2–0 season sweep of Los Angeles.

With 32 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and three steals, Jaylen Brown carried Boston off his back as the team shot 48.2% from the floor. Through 51 games this season, Brown is averaging 29.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.9 assists per game on 48.1% shooting, all career highs in scoring and rebounding.

After the game, four-time MVP LeBron James publicly endorsed Brown’s MVP candidacy.

“With this whole MVP thing, I don’t understand why there isn’t some discussion about his name,” James said. “Like, nobody gave him a chance to start the season. And what’s his average, 30? Just under 30? It’s a popularity contest sometimes, I’ll tell you.”

The Celtics have been without Jayson Tatum all season due to an Achilles tear, with Jrue Holiday, Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis no longer on the roster. Tatum is not expected to return until at least March.

James praised Brown for providing stability to the revised roster as well as improving his own output.

“I think he tapped into the motivation of a lot of people who thought they were going to have a bad year,” James said. “The entire championship team has been revamped significantly, and he used it as motivation to keep them afloat. They’re playing great basketball, and it’s because of him and the rest of the guys. They’ve taken the next step.”

Brown has taken an expanded leadership role, helping keep Boston among the conference elite despite the overhaul. Additions like Nikola Vucevic have supported the rotation, but Brown’s production has driven the results.

Earlier this month, Brown and James were All-Star teammates on the USA Stripes team, where they revisited a rookie-year exchange in which James told Brown he would become an All-Star.

Their relationship previously gained attention during the 2024 Las Vegas Summer League, when Brown questioned Bronny James’ pro readiness.

James commented about Brown on Sunday, “We’ve had a very respectful relationship, other than that – he said about Brown in Summer League.” “But other than that, we’re absolutely fine.”

Brown later talked about Bronny in a social media post.

“Having your son in the NBA with you is a great accomplishment. …Bronny has all the tools to be successful. I look forward to watching his development.”

James said he and Brown “will be fine.”

“I think he went on social media and said something about it,” James said. “It’s all good, but Bronny still has a long way to go, but that’s another story. But baby, I mean, listen, JB is [great]. S—, he’s playing great basketball, man.”

Before Sunday’s matchup, former NBA star Tracy McGrady also insisted that as it is currently structured, the Celtics can reach the Eastern Conference Finals with Brown’s leadership at an MVP level. While this may seem bold on McGrady’s part, Boston remains competitive despite the roster changes. The Celtics are undoubtedly a threat in the East and are title contenders.

Jaylen Brown delivered another outstanding performance to lead the Boston Celtics past the Los Angeles Lakers, 111-89, on Sunday at Crypto.com Arena.

Brown finished with a game-high 32 points, eight rebounds, seven assists and four steals as the Celtics improved to 37–19. The Lakers fell to 34–22.

LeBron James has praised Brown’s performance this season, taking over for Boston amid Jayson Tatum’s continued absence due to an Achilles injury.

“He’s using the motivation of a lot of people who are saying they’re going to have a bad year because obviously, with JT being out, they’re losing Jrue (Holliday), Al (Horford) gone, (Kristaps) Porzingis gone, their entire championship team is pretty much new. He’s using that as motivation to keep them afloat. They’re playing great basketball because of him and all the other guys. He’s taking the next step,” James said in a video posted. C.L.N.S.

James said he and Brown did it stay civilizedEven if the latter criticized the former’s son Bronny James last year.

“We’ve had a very respectful relationship, other than what he said about Bronny in Summer League. But other than that, we’re OK,” the four-time MVP said with a smile.

“It’s all good. Bronny still has a long way to go, but that’s a different story.”

LeBron James on his relationship with Jaylen Brown:

“Our relationship has been very respectful. Other than that crap he said about Bronny in Summer League. But other than that, we’re okay.”

🤣🤣🤣

(via @celticsclns)

pic.twitter.com/rV9KrpCj4q

– ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) 23 February 2026

While watching Summer League at courtside, Brown was caught on video saying, “I don’t think Bronny James is a professional.” It quickly went viral and, of course, James took notice.

The young James has been widely criticized, with many fans sharing Brown’s views. However, he has shown improvement in his second season.

Meanwhile, the elder James said Brown is playing “great basketball,” adding that the Celtics star is not being talked about enough for the MVP award.

Led by Myles Garrett and coordinated by Jim Schwartz, the Cleveland Browns have developed a reputation for effective defense. While Cleveland has not been able to post enough wins, their defense has helped keep the Browns in many games.

Only, now that Kevin Stefanski has been fired and Todd Monken has been hired, Schwartz will not return in 2026. Now, it turns out that not one of the Browns’ young Pro Bowl defenders is expected to return. In fact, he is not expected to ever play football again.

According to Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, Pro Bowl linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is “doubtful to return to the field of play.”

Koramoa’s neck injury occurred on October 27, 2024, against the Ravens, where he was involved in a brutal collision with 6-foot-2, 252-pound running back Derrick Henry. He was coming off a Pro Bowl year, but this injury ended his season after eight games. Koramoah, 26, has not played a snap since.

The Browns have already prepared for JOK’s absence by selecting Carson Schwesinger with the 33rd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. The 22-year-old linebacker earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors after a stellar season in which he recorded 156 tackles, 2.5 sacks and two interceptions.

If this is the end of the road for Koramoah, he will have made $18.06 million over his four-year NFL career.

RELATED: Cleveland Browns become ‘preferred landing spot’ for dual-threat QB

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The Cleveland Browns have had a busy offseason, moving on from Kevin Stefanski and hiring Todd Monken as their new head coach. Soon, they will focus on improving a roster that went just 5-12 this season.

But Brown is in the news Monday for reasons that are completely out of his control.

This time, it’s because Browns safety Ronnie Hickman was attacked by four men in Manhattan. The incident occurred just after 4:30 a.m. in the lobby of the Sixty Less Hotel on Allen Street in Manhattan

Investigators are still trying to determine whether Hickman was specifically targeted because of his profession as an NFL player, or whether the attackers also knew who he was.

Four men reportedly attacked Hickman, then fled the scene. Hickman was then taken to a nearby hospital in Bellevue, where he was reported to be in stable condition before later being released.

The Browns released a brief statement on the incident.

“Safety Ronny Hickman was the victim of an assault at a New York City hotel early Monday morning. Ronny was treated at an area hospital for minor injuries following the incident, was later released, and is resting at home with his family.”

Authorities have not disclosed whether they have made any arrests related to the attack on Hickman.

Hickman is coming off the best season of his career, where the former undrafted free agent signee started all 17 games. He recorded a career-high 103 tackles (1 TFL), seven pass deflections, and two interceptions.

He is set for restricted free agency this offseason, where he has set himself up to earn a big raise from the $1.04 million salary he is due in 2025.

RELATED: Cleveland Browns become ‘preferred landing spot’ for dual-threat QB

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