Cleveland Browns Offseason Buzz: Coaching Moves, Free Agency Targets, and a Glimpse Toward 2026
The Cleveland Browns are in the thick of another pivotal offseason, and while the Super Bowl may not be in sight just yet, there’s plenty of movement in Berea that could shape the franchise’s future - both near and long-term. From coaching interviews to free agency whispers and stadium updates, here’s a full breakdown of where things stand for the Browns as they head into a critical 2026 stretch.
Coaching Carousel: Familiar Faces in the Mix
The Browns are reportedly eyeing Houston Texans assistant Cory Undlin for a defensive coordinator role. Undlin isn’t a stranger to this organization - or to new head coach Todd Monken. He has past ties to both Monken and former Browns DC Jim Schwartz, which could make him a seamless cultural and schematic fit.
This potential hire would mark another chapter in what’s already been a busy coaching transition. Monken’s arrival has drawn mixed reactions, especially when compared to the hiring of Kevin Stefanski a few years back. Insider rankings haven’t been kind to the Browns’ latest coaching decisions, suggesting that while Stefanski’s hire was once seen as a stabilizing move, Monken’s is viewed more skeptically - at least for now.
But Monken’s no stranger to constructing explosive offenses, and if he can bring that same energy to Cleveland, the narrative could shift quickly.
Free Agency Watch: Alec Pierce on the Radar
If Monken wants to jumpstart this offense, wide receiver Alec Pierce could be a name to watch in free agency. The 6-foot-3 deep threat has flashed big-play ability and would bring a vertical element that’s been missing in Cleveland’s passing game.
Pierce’s skill set could pair nicely with a reimagined offensive scheme under Monken, especially if the Browns are looking to stretch defenses and open up the field. While nothing is imminent, he’s the kind of player who could make a real impact - the kind of signing that turns heads in training camp.
Playoff Outlook: Realistic Optimism in 2026
Let’s not sugarcoat it: the Browns aren’t Super Bowl contenders heading into 2026. But that doesn’t mean fans should completely shut the door on postseason hopes. There’s a young core in place, and if the right pieces fall into place - a healthier quarterback room, continued growth on defense, and offensive improvement under Monken - this team could sneak into the playoff picture.
It's not about dreaming big just yet. It's about building a foundation that can support sustained success. And that starts with internal development and smart roster moves.
Around the Dawg Pound: Updates Off the Field
- Power Rankings Snub: ESPN’s post-Super Bowl power rankings placed the Browns dead last - a ranking that raised eyebrows given the strength of Cleveland’s defense and the promise of its young core. While rankings don’t win games, this kind of underestimation could serve as bulletin board material heading into offseason workouts.
- Fanbase Recognition: The Browns Backers of North Jersey were named the 2025 Browns Backers Chapter of the Year. Their support was on full display during the team’s Week 10 matchup against the Jets, just miles from MetLife Stadium.
- Stadium Revamp: New renderings of the Browns’ stadium project have been released, showcasing a modernized Dawg Pound and expanded concourse areas. It’s a nod to the franchise’s commitment to enhancing the fan experience - and a signal that Cleveland is investing in its future, both on and off the field.
- Legal Developments: The city of Cleveland and the Browns are jointly pushing back against a lawsuit aimed at halting the stadium dome project. Attorneys from both sides are working to keep construction on track, a move that underscores the importance of the project to both the team and the city.
QB Situation: Lessons from 2025
One of the biggest lessons from the 2025 season? Quarterback competitions don’t always lead to clarity.
The Browns rotated through a four-man QB battle and ended up with just five wins to show for it. Heading into 2026, the message is clear: stability at quarterback is crucial.
That’s where Deshaun Watson comes in. Reports suggest he’s asserting himself as the clear leader in the room, and his recent response to Shedeur Sanders only reinforced that edge. Watson’s confidence - and ability to back it up - could be the spark this offense needs.
Myles Garrett Makes Olympic Appearance
Off the field, star pass rusher Myles Garrett made headlines for a different reason - showing support for his girlfriend, Olympic snowboarder Chloe Kim, at the 2026 Winter Games in Milan-Cortina. Garrett’s presence turned heads, and his jacket? Equally elite.
Final Word
The Browns are in transition, but not in freefall. There’s a plan taking shape - even if it’s not yet fully realized. Coaching hires, free agency targets, and a renewed commitment to infrastructure all point toward a franchise trying to recalibrate and climb back into relevance.
No, 2026 may not be the year Cleveland hoists the Lombardi. But if Monken can get this offense rolling and the young core continues to develop, the Browns could be a sleeper team worth watching - and maybe even one that makes some noise come December.