It’s been a topsy-turvy offseason for the Cleveland Browns so far, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to be optimistic about when the 2015 NFL regular season gets going four months from now. Despite all of the negatives that have come out of Cleveland this offseason, here are three reasons why Browns fans should be looking forward to the season:
3) Improved offensive weapons
Cleveland doesn't have a gamebreaker like Josh Gordon this season, but they boast a stable of reliable weapons. Running backs Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell showed they could be one of the best running back duos in the NFL last year, and the signings of wide receivers Brian Hartline and Dwayne Bowe give the Browns more playmakers on the outside than they've had in a very long time. Cleveland still needs to figure out their quarterback situation, but they've given whoever wins the job all the tools they need to succeed.
2) Cleveland's good defense will be even better
The Browns were a top 10 defense last year in points allowed even though they ranked dead last in the league against the run. Cleveland has addressed that weakness in free agency and will continue to do so in the draft, and that should turn them into a top five defense.
1) No more off-field distractions
Sure, there will be somewhat of a media circus in training camp surrounding Johnny Manziel and the quarterback battle, but it looks like there won't be the headlines about him off the field after his stint in rehab. All the hype around the former Heisman trophy winner has certainly died down, allowing the team to focus more on football.
Not having Josh Gordon in the fold will also help in that regard, and the Browns will have much more stability without having to worry about his off-field issues - or if he'll be available to play or not.
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