The Cleveland Browns are making significant changes to their lineup ahead of their upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens. Head coach Kevin Stefanski announced that Jameis Winston will be the starting quarterback, replacing Dorian Thompson-Robinson. This decision comes as a response to Deshaun Watson’s season-ending Achilles injury, which he sustained during last Sunday’s loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Winston’s experience will be crucial for the Browns as they navigate this challenging phase. After signing with Cleveland in March, he has primarily served as the backup quarterback, only appearing in games when necessary. His last start was in 2022 while with the New Orleans Saints. Over his NFL career, Winston has made 98 appearances and has a record of 34 wins and 46 losses in 80 starts.
Along with the quarterback change, offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey will assume play-calling responsibilities from Stefanski. Dorsey joined the Browns this offseason after a tenure with the Buffalo Bills, where he was let go midseason after a 5-5 start in 2023. The Browns’ offense has struggled this season, averaging only 15.6 points per game, placing them 29th in the league.
In preparation for the game, the Browns also bolstered their quarterback depth by signing Bailey Zappe from the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad. Thompson-Robinson, who played as the backup in Week 7, entered the game following Watson’s injury but sustained a finger injury himself. Fortunately, sources indicate that Thompson-Robinson’s injury is not serious.