The Cleveland Browns have a fresh opportunity to shake off the questions and doubts from fans after years of struggle. Cleveland will need to figure out the quarterback situation, but with a stiff defense, the team could put together a respectable run this season. It also helps to have the easiest strength of schedule in the NFL. However, the division once again didn’t do the team any favors.
Here’s a look at the toughest matchups for Cleveland this season. Fans have known about the opponents for some time, according to an opponent list from Browns media. Todd Monken can only hope that the matchups don’t land back-to-back.
Most Difficult Matchups for Cleveland Browns in 2026
#5 – Cleveland Browns at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have a perennially red-hot offense, which could push the Browns to score points. If Shedeur Sanders’ offense doesn’t take a step forward this season, the team might be doomed by any loss of a lead. The game taking place on the other side of the country doesn’t help matters.
#4 – Cleveland Browns at Jacksonville Jaguars
Trevor Lawrence showed he could explode in the right offense last season, and most of his squad is set to return. As such, the Browns will have its hands full. The matchup will take place in Jacksonville, which means the Browns will need to travel across the country once again.
#3 – Cleveland Browns at Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers know the Browns as well as any opponent. The Browns are 1-2 in its last three matchups against Pittsburgh, and might have poked the bear by sneaking out with a win last time around. If this matchup is the first between the two teams this season, look out.
#2 – Cleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson will have as much motivation as he has had since his rookie season after losing John Harbaugh. Playing in Baltimore is never easy, but Cleveland’s young team may recoil at the atmosphere walking into the building that Todd Monken helped build over the last several years.
#1 – Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals
The Browns’ biggest problem is its offense, and the team is almost guaranteed to need to score points in this one. The Bengals can put up touchdowns in a hurry with Joe Burrow, which means something will need to function at a high level for Cleveland’s offense, which is asking a lot from a defensive team like Cleveland. This game will also take place on the road, which is never an inviting proposition.
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