The Cleveland Browns are heading back overseas-and this time, it could be historic.
According to multiple reports, the Browns are expected to face the New Orleans Saints in Paris on October 25, 2026. That game, set to be played at the iconic Stade de France, would mark the NFL’s first-ever regular-season matchup in France. While the league has yet to officially confirm Cleveland as the Saints’ opponent, the buzz is building-and for good reason.
The NFL had previously announced that the Saints will serve as the home team for this inaugural French game. And with the Browns scheduled to play the NFC South in 2026, a trip to New Orleans is already on their calendar. The stars seem to be aligning for this overseas clash.
Now, let’s be honest: when you first hear Browns vs. Saints, it might not scream “marquee international showcase.”
Both teams are coming off losing seasons, and neither made a deep playoff push. But don’t let the records fool you-this matchup has the potential to be a lot more compelling than it looks on paper.
For starters, Cleveland is entering a new era under head coach Todd Monken. Known for his aggressive, quarterback-friendly systems, Monken brings a fresh offensive identity that could light a spark in the Browns’ attack.
His track record suggests he can turn solid talent into high-octane production, and he’s got some intriguing pieces to work with. Running back Quinshon Judkins and tight end Harold Fannin Jr. are two rising stars who could thrive in Monken’s scheme.
If the offense clicks, this could be a completely different Browns team by the time they land in Paris.
Defensively, the Browns still boast elite talent-headlined by Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward. Garrett remains one of the most dominant edge rushers in the league, a game-wrecker capable of taking over at any moment.
Ward, when healthy, is a lockdown corner who can match up with the best. For European fans getting their first live taste of NFL action, that kind of star power is a big-time draw.
On the other sideline, the Saints are building something interesting of their own under head coach Kellen Moore. Known for his creative play designs and willingness to take risks, Moore is trying to inject some life into a New Orleans offense that’s been searching for its identity in recent years.
Rookie quarterback Tyler Shough showed flashes in 2025, particularly in his connection with wide receiver Chris Olave. If that duo continues to develop, they could pose a real challenge for opposing defenses-including Cleveland’s.
Beyond the Xs and Os, there’s a broader context here. The NFL has made it clear it wants to expand its international footprint, and staging a game in Paris is a bold next step.
London and Germany have already proven their passion for American football, and now France gets its shot. The league’s vision includes every team playing at least one international game in the near future, and this Browns-Saints matchup could be a key part of that movement.
For Cleveland, there’s also a bit of unfinished business. The Browns are 0-2 in international games so far, including a tough loss to the Vikings last season. A win in Paris wouldn’t just be a milestone for the franchise-it would be a statement that this team is ready to turn the page and start a new chapter under Monken.
So while it may not be a showdown between perennial powerhouses, this game has all the ingredients to surprise. A new-look Browns offense, a pair of defensive stars, a young Saints quarterback on the rise, and the electric atmosphere of a first-time host city-it’s a recipe that could deliver something special.
Come October 25, all eyes will be on Paris. And if things go right, the Browns might just leave with more than a passport stamp-they might finally get that elusive international win.