The Cleveland Browns endured a nightmare start to the new season against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Their offense struggled to get anything going, eventually contributing to a disappointing 34-10 blowout defeat.

Unfortunately for Cleveland, the problems didn't end when the final whistle sounded. The Browns have now suffered another blow, with running back Dylan Simpson set to be placed on injured reserve.

Simpson was expected to provide important depth behind Quinshon Judkins. With the backup now sidelined, however, the pressure on Judkins increases significantly.

The Browns will need Judkins to shoulder more of the workload moving forward. That could become a problem if the offense continues struggling to consistently move the football.

After such a poor opening performance, Cleveland can ill afford more setbacks. Losing an important backup only adds to the list of issues Todd Monken must address.

Browns HC Todd Monken Is Standing by Deshaun Watson

Monken has remained firmly behind his decision to make Deshaun Watson his starting quarterback. Even after the Browns' struggles, the head coach has shown little indication that he is ready to abandon his plan.

Following the loss, Monken was asked whether the locker room remained behind Watson. His response was blunt, insisting that the players don't really have a choice because deciding who plays is ultimately the coaching staff's responsibility.

For now, that means Watson remains the man entrusted with leading the offense. However, if the Browns continue producing performances like this, Monken's decision will inevitably face even greater scrutiny.

Written by

Joseph Nithin