Cleveland Browns: Ranking every starting QB since 1999

Jason Campbell 2013

Before the 2013 season, the Browns were searching for a quarterback to back up Brandon Weeden, and mentor their young promising player. Signing Jason Campbell to a two-year contract in March of 2013, it was expected that Cleveland had found the player to fill that role. Instead, as often is the case in Cleveland, the quarterback situation deteriorated quickly. An injury to Weeden allowed Brian Hoyer to make his first career start in Week 3, but the first Hoyer era didn’t last long after he tore his ACL.

Jason Campbell made his first start as a Brown in Week 8 against the Chiefs. Although Cleveland lost the game 23-17, Campbell’s performance was viewed favorably as he threw for 293 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. This earned him an additional start the following week in Cleveland against the Ravens.

In his first home start, Campbell defeated the division foes by throwing for 262 yards and three touchdowns, including two to receiver Davone Bess. The performance warranted him AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors.

Campbell then went on to start the next six games, losing all six, but making the most of his opportunities. Overall, Campbell threw 11 touchdown passes compared to eight interceptions during his eight starts in Cleveland, all in 2013. In March of the following year, the Browns released Campbell despite the veteran presence he brought to the team, later drafting Manziel.

Next: No. 9: Colt McCoy