Cleveland’s 17–12 Week 5 loss to the New York Jets highlighted the Browns’ ongoing struggles to establish their run game.

The offensive approach has also raised questions about how best to get the ground game moving. In a recent article on Substack, The Browns’ Run Game Geometry Is Trash, former Browns center LeCharles Bentley argued that Cleveland was spending too much time accommodating Deshaun Watson’s preference for shotgun formations:

“I think Cleveland is spending too much time trying to make Deshaun Watson comfortable. Watson has historically preferred operating from shotgun. That’s where he enjoyed tremendous success at Clemson, and it’s where he played some of his best football in Houston.”

Bentley noted that NFL defenses had grown better at reading spread concepts and RPOs. He believes Cleveland must prioritize what helps its running game, even if that means Watson has to adjust.

His conclusion was blunt:

“The offense cannot become a hostage to the quarterback’s preferences.”

Browns' offensive approach raises questions about Todd Monken's strategy

Deshaun Watson completed 15 of 33 passes for 155 yards and a touchdown against the Jets in Week 5. He also took eight sacks, while Quinshon Judkins managed 44 rushing yards on 14 carries.

Head coach Todd Monken must find ways to improve Cleveland’s offensive consistency. LeCharles Bentley’s argument is that the Browns should vary their formations and create better opportunities for the running game rather than build their approach around Watson’s comfort.

Written by

Sayantan