Cleveland Browns' 5-2 record masks slow-start red flag threatening playoff push

The Cleveland Browns have surged to a 5-2 record, but a troubling pattern of slow starts is raising concerns about their postseason viability. Despite the winning streak, the team has consistently fallen behind early, forcing quarterback Deshaun Watson and the offense to play catch-up. Head coach Kevin Stefanski's squad has shown resilience, but relying on second-half comebacks is unsustainable against stronger opponents. The Browns' defense, led by Myles Garrett, has kept games close, yet the offense's inability to score in the first quarter could prove costly. With matchups against AFC contenders looming, Cleveland must address this issue quickly. If the slow starts continue, the Browns risk squandering a promising season and missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year.