Cleveland Browns Week 17 Notebook: Steelers Showdown, Draft Implications, and Myles Garrett’s Chase for History
As the Cleveland Browns prepare for a pivotal Week 17 clash with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the headlines surrounding the team stretch far beyond the field. From playoff spoiler opportunities to looming offseason questions, and even a potential record-breaking moment from one of the league’s most dominant defenders, there’s no shortage of storylines in Cleveland this week.
Browns vs. Steelers: Who Gets to Watch?
The Browns and Steelers meet in one of the NFL’s most storied rivalries, and this week’s game carries extra weight despite both teams being outside the playoff picture. For fans hoping to catch the action on TV, the Week 17 broadcast map reveals which regions will get the game. It’s a critical AFC North matchup with pride - and possibly jobs - on the line.
Power Rankings Reflect a Rough Stretch
After a hard-fought loss to the Buffalo Bills, the Browns find themselves slipping in the NFL power rankings. It’s been a tough December, and while the team has continued to battle, results haven’t followed. Still, with two games left, including this week’s tilt against Pittsburgh, Cleveland has a chance to finish strong and play spoiler in the division.
Christmas Day Games Impact Browns’ Draft Position
While the Browns weren’t on the field for Christmas Day, their front office had a vested interest in the results. Two games on the holiday slate had direct implications on Cleveland’s 2026 NFL Draft order. With eyes already turning to next year’s roster building, every loss and win around the league matters - especially for a team that could be retooling in key areas.
Quarterback and Coaching Questions Cloud the AFC North
The Browns aren’t the only team in the division facing potential changes under center and on the sideline. Across the AFC North, quarterback situations are in flux, and coaching rumors are swirling. Cleveland’s own future at both positions remains a topic of speculation, but they’re not alone - this offseason could reshape the entire division.
Grant Delpit Spreads Holiday Cheer
While the Browns work through a challenging season on the field, safety Grant Delpit continues to make a major impact off it. At his fourth annual Community Christmas Celebration, Delpit helped provide gifts to 400 kids in the Cleveland area. It’s another reminder that even in a tough year, the team’s connection to the community remains strong.
Brook Park Stadium Plans Remain a Hot Topic
One of the biggest local stories of 2025 has been the Browns’ proposed move to Brook Park. As the team explores relocating from the lakefront to a new stadium site, the debate continues among fans and city leaders. The potential move would mark a significant shift in the franchise’s identity and footprint in Northeast Ohio.
Injury Watch: Steelers Prepare on Christmas Day
The Steelers didn’t take Christmas off, continuing their Week 17 prep at the UPMC Rooney Sports Complex. The latest injury report includes updates on both sides, with Cleveland monitoring several key names ahead of Sunday’s game. With so much uncertainty surrounding both rosters, the final injury designations could have a big impact on the outcome.
Shedeur Sanders’ Status for Week 17
All eyes are on Shedeur Sanders as the Browns prepare to face Pittsburgh. After making his NFL debut earlier this month, Sanders has shown flashes of promise. His status for Week 17 remains under watch, but if he’s under center, it’ll be another opportunity to evaluate the rookie in a high-pressure AFC North environment.
Myles Garrett Eyes Sack Record
Myles Garrett is closing in on history. With just two games left, the Browns’ defensive cornerstone is within striking distance of the single-season sack record.
What makes it even more compelling is the possibility of Garrett breaking the mark against Pittsburgh - a team he’s had no shortage of drama with in the past. If he gets there, it won’t just be a record - it’ll be a moment.
Shedeur Sanders Sends a Message
It’s been nearly a month since the Browns last tasted victory - a game that also marked Shedeur Sanders’ first NFL start. Since then, the rookie quarterback has faced his share of challenges, including some heat from opposing fans.
But Sanders hasn’t flinched. His response has been measured, focused, and mature - exactly what the Browns hoped to see from a young signal-caller trying to grow into the role.
With two weeks left in the regular season, the Browns are out of the playoff race but far from irrelevant. Between a budding quarterback story, a defensive star chasing greatness, and a franchise at a crossroads both on and off the field, there’s still plenty to watch in Cleveland. Week 17 isn’t just another game - it’s a glimpse into what the future might hold.