As we head into Championship Weekend, the NFL playoff picture is narrowing-and with it, the number of former Cleveland Browns still in the hunt for a Super Bowl ring. If you're a Browns fan looking for a rooting interest among familiar faces, the options are limited-but not entirely gone.
No Browns Left Standing in the NFC
Let’s start with the NFC, where the answer is pretty straightforward: no former Browns are expected to suit up this weekend. Neither the Seahawks nor the Rams-two teams that often find ways to stash veterans and former high draft picks-have any ex-Browns on their active rosters, practice squads, or injured lists. That’s a rarity, considering how often players bounce around the league and land on playoff contenders, even in depth roles.
A Few Familiar Names Still Alive in the AFC
The AFC side, however, offers a little more intrigue. There are a handful of former Browns still technically in the mix, though their roles range from backup duty to practice squad depth.
Elijah Moore, who joined the Broncos late in the season, hasn’t seen significant action since arriving in Denver. He’s mostly been working with the backups, but with Jarrett Stidham under center, there’s always the possibility that some behind-the-scenes chemistry could earn Moore a few surprise snaps. It’s a long shot, but stranger things have happened in January football.
Josh Dobbs, a quarterback who spent time in Cleveland, is now serving as a backup for the Patriots. He’s not expected to see the field unless something unexpected happens, but his presence on the roster is a reminder of how valuable experienced depth can be at the game’s most important position.
D’Ernest Johnson, a fan favorite during his time with the Browns, is currently on the Patriots’ practice squad. While that means he won’t be suiting up unless there’s a last-minute roster move, it’s still notable that he’s remained in the mix this deep into the postseason.
The most likely former Brown to make an impact this weekend? That would be Austin Hooper.
The veteran tight end has seen a bit of postseason action already, hauling in one catch for 14 yards on four targets. During the regular season, Hooper posted 21 receptions for 263 yards and two touchdowns-a solid contribution in a supporting role.
If the Patriots look to lean on their tight ends in the red zone or in short-yardage situations, Hooper could be called upon to make a key play.
Former Browns Across the Playoff Field
Even though most of the remaining teams no longer feature ex-Browns, several former Cleveland players did make playoff appearances this year before their teams were eliminated. Here’s a rundown of where they ended up:
AFC - Former Browns in the Playoffs
- Denver Broncos: WR Elijah Moore
- New England Patriots: QB Josh Dobbs, RB D’Ernest Johnson
- (Other AFC teams that had former Browns were not specified)
NFC - Former Browns in the Playoffs
- Chicago Bears: QB Case Keenum (2021), TE Stephen Carlson (2021, practice squad), DT Andrew Billings (2021)
- Philadelphia Eagles: DE Ogbo Okoronkwo (2024, injured reserve)
- Carolina Panthers: OG Austin Corbett (2019)
- San Francisco 49ers: DT Jordan Elliott (2023)
- Green Bay Packers: RB Pierre Strong (2025), K Lucas Havrisik (2024, practice squad)
- Seattle Seahawks: No former Browns
- Los Angeles Rams: No former Browns
Final Thought
It’s not uncommon to see playoff rosters dotted with players who once wore the orange and brown. While none of these names are likely to steal headlines this weekend, they’re part of the intricate network of depth and experience that championship teams rely on. For Browns fans, it’s a small reminder that talent developed-or at least seen-in Cleveland still finds its way into meaningful January football.