The Browns learned that Deshaun Watson would be suspended for just six games on August 1 when disciplinary officer Sue Robinson handed down her decision in the NFL's investigation into Watson's alleged conduct. Considering that many people around the sport expected that Watson could miss more than half of the season, if not all of it, Cleveland finds itself in a position of unexpected strength. If the Browns can survive his six-week absence, they have a realistic chance to contend in the AFC North. Assuming he plays up to his potential, Watson' s arrival in Cleveland is a major upgrade over Baker Mayfield, now in Carolina.
The Browns' strategy of trading everything but the kitchen sink for Watson in the offseason was an extremely risky one, and they arguably compounded their errors by entrusting journeyman quarterback Jacoby Brissett to be the team's primary backup. Trading for wide receiver Amari Cooper from Dallas gives them a decent top receiving threat but it won't matter early in the season if Brissett's inaccuracy is showcased each week. They will have to especially rely on Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt, and the rushing attack during the first six weeks.
The first week matchup against their Mayfield in Carolina is an intriguing one, and with a road win, Cleveland has a realistic chance to start 4-0 with three likely non-playoff teams up next. But the schedule gets extremely difficult from weeks 5 through 14, with only a bye week and a matchup against Houston as respites from a slate of likel y playoff contenders. In total, Cleveland plays six of their final nine games on the road. The oddsmakers have set Cleveland's win total at 9.5 and for the Browns to achieve the over, they'll likely have to win some games as underdogs despite Watson's presence.
- More NFL futures:'SportsLine Projection Model's best bets
Below, you'll find the Cleveland Browns 2022 schedule, win total and more futures odds from Caesars Sportsbook, followed by picks from top SportsLine NFL analysts Larry Hartstein and R.J. White.