Can the Cleveland Browns win the AFC North in 2020?

The Cleveland Browns have been active in free agency and had a strong 2020 draft.  However, the question remains if they can compete for a division title.

In a recent NFL Spin Zone article, Randy Gurzi suggests the Cleveland Browns are the biggest winner of the AFC North this offseason. While it is tough to argue that point, let’s not forget the Baltimore Ravens have also added a lot of talent to an already deep roster for the 2020 season.

Not only did the Browns add a lot of talent, but they also added it in positions that were in desperate need of upgrades. With free-agent right tackle Jack Conklin and the No. 10 pick Jedrick Wills at left tackle, the Browns turned their biggest 2019 weakness into a strength. On top of that, they also added pro-bowl tight end Austin Hooper who will likely be a safety valve for Baker Mayfield next season.

The defense is full of “prove it” one-year contracts that include safeties Karl Joseph and Andrew Sendejo as well as cornerback Kevin Johnson and defensive tackle Andrew Billings. The only position that has any question mark is linebacker.

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Rookie third-rounder Jacob Phillips may have a chance at early playing time along with free agent run-stuffer B.J. Goodson. If all of these additions live up to their potential, the Browns defense could be dangerous.

While the Browns did great, fans can’t sleep on what the Baltimore Ravens have done this offseason either.  They signed a dominant all-around defensive end in Calais Campbell, as well as a starting-caliber pass-rusher in Derek Wolfe. We also can’t forget the Ravens retained cornerback Jimmy Smith and outside linebacker Mather Judon who were both contributors in 2019.

Not only did the Ravens do well in free agency, but they also drafted extremely well. First-round Linebacker Patrick Queen from LSU will be a day one starter and has the potential to be the next star on the Ravens defense.

Additionally, they were able to draft J.K. Dobbins, a highly rated running back from Ohio State who is the perfect fit for their system. As a Buckeye fan, it was sickening to see that pick.  The Ravens also had four third-round picks, all of which could be contributors next season at defensive line, wide receiver, linebacker, and guard.

The only negative for the Ravens this offseason was the retirement of guard Marshal Yanda and the release of safety Tony Jefferson. Yanda was still a top-performing guard and Jefferson became a cap casualty who is still looking for a home. It’s safe to say the 2019 NFL MVP quarterback, Lamar Jackson will be able to make up for the departures.

What does this mean?  Yes, the Browns had a strong offseason and as a fan, you should feel the excitement that Kevin Stefanski is finally the answer.

However, let’s remain cautiously optimistic.  One, the Browns must prove they are for real on the field. Two, the Ravens may be the second or third best team in the NFL.  Winning an AFC North title is not impossible but will be a tremendous challenge.