The Cleveland Browns entered 2026 with plenty of questions surrounding the franchise. Four games later, Todd Monken and Deshaun Watson have helped turn those doubts into genuine optimism as Cleveland sits at 3-1.

Watson has delivered in key moments, while Monken has brought stability to an offense that many expected to struggle. Their success has changed the conversation around Cleveland, but the players and coaches cannot take all the credit.

General manager Andrew Berry and the Browns' front office also deserve recognition for decisions that helped rebuild the roster. Steve Palazzolo recently highlighted one such move on the Check The Mic Show.

Palazzolo pointed to Cleveland's decision to trade down from the pick that became Travis Hunter in the 2025 NFL Draft. The Browns turned that selection into Mason Graham, Quinshon Judkins, KC Concepcion, and others, as well as future draft capital.

"The 3-for-1, essentially, deal for the Browns, given where they were, the lack of depth that they had through the Watson years, and the lack of flexibility, the lack of draft picks, it was a big move to get them back on track."

That decision gave Cleveland valuable depth and flexibility after years of roster limitations. Now, with the Browns sitting at 3-1, the front office's strategy looks increasingly important to the team's turnaround.

Browns' Myles Garrett Trade Is Also Paying Off

Berry made another major decision when Cleveland traded Myles Garrett to the Rams. The Browns received Jared Verse and future draft capital, choosing to reshape their roster rather than continue building around one defensive superstar.

Verse has yet to record a sack, but Cleveland's defense continues to impress as a unit. The Browns have created consistent pressure and shown they can remain effective without Garrett dominating the spotlight.

That development strengthens the argument that Berry's moves have helped reshape Cleveland. The Browns now have a deeper roster, more flexibility and a team capable of winning in multiple ways.

Written by

Joseph Nithin