The Associated Press
CLEVELAND BROWNS (4-12)
New faces: Coach Mike Pettine, offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, GM Ray Farmer, QBs Johnny Manziel (rookie) and Rex Grossman, RB Ben Tate, WRs Miles Austin, Nate Burleson and Andrew Hawkins, LB Karlos Dansby, S Donte Whitner, rookie CB Justin Gilbert, OLs Paul McQuistan and rookie Joe Bitonio, TE Jim Dray.
Key losses: LBs D’Qwell Jackson and Quentin Groves, S T.J. Ward, WRs Greg Little and Davone Bess, QBs Brandon Weeden and Jason Campbell, G Shawn Lauvao.
Strengths: OL, DB, DL.
Weaknesses: WR, QB, RB.
What’s New: Just about everything in Pettine’s first head coaching job. QB Brian Hoyer beat out Manziel during training camp but may not have much time before hyped rookie takes over. Browns will lean heavily on zone-blocked running game and attacking defense to keep them in games. There aren’t enough playmakers on offense.
Expectations: Manziel wasn’t drafted in first round to sit, and stadium full of No. 2 jerseys — along with impatient owner Jimmy Haslam — could pressure Pettine to hand ball to Johnny Football quickly. Cleveland has made just one playoff appearance since 1999 and second one doesn’t appear imminent. LeBron James should ease pain during Cleveland’s winter.
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