2013 Record: 4-12
Notable Losses: Brandon Weeden, Trent Richardson (Traded), Greg Little, Shawn Lauvao, T.J. Ward, Josh Gordon (Probable Suspension)
Notable Gains: Donte Whitner, Ben Tate, Miles Austin, Nate Burleson, Karlos Dansby, Jim Dray, Paul McQuistan, Andrew Hawkins
Draft Class: Justin Gilbert, Johnny Manziel, Joel Bitonio, Christian Kirksey, Terrence West, Pierre Desir
The Facts: Ben Tate, if he can stay healthy and Terrence West should provide upgrades from Edwin Baker, Willis McGahee, and something called Fozzy Whittaker. The offensive line should still be strong and get better with the drafting of Joel Bitonio.
The Browns have a good pair of blocking tight ends in Gary Barnidge and Jim Dray, and a quality receiving threat in Jordan Cameron. It's at wide receiver and quarterback where the problems arise. Brian Hoyer has been a back-up his entire career and Johnny Manziel is a rookie who will be starting with a team that's lacking in the wide receiver department.
With Josh Gordon suspended Manziel/Hoyers' receiving corps will be composed of 31 year old, injury prone Miles Austin, aged, injury-prone Nate Burleson, Andrew Hawkins, who was a No. 4 receiver in Cleveland, and Anthony Armstrong, who's bounced around the NFL and AFL. However the defense looks good and the Browns pass rush should improve if Barkevious Mingo improves and Paul Kruger plays up to the level of his contract.
The Browns pass secondary shouldn't suffer with Joe Haden locked up and the Browns having drafted Gilbert and Desir. If Johnny Manziel or Brian Hoyer can play at an even adequate level, the Browns have reasons for future optimism, despite probable struggles vs. divisional opponents, and NFC South opponents.
Predicted Record: 5-11. Wins against the Titans,Jaguars,Buccaneers,Texans,and Bills
If you disagree with my ranking and assessment remember: Unless it's something crazy, your guess is as good as mine.