Cleveland Browns · Franchise era 6 of 6
Talent returns, stability does not: the Cleveland Browns story
Franchise era
2018—present
Talent returns, stability does not
Cleveland Browns
The story in one sentence
Cleveland ended its long playoff-win drought in 2020 and built an elite defense around Garrett, but quarterback decisions have kept the era unsettled.
A playoff breakthrough opens another complicated chapter
Myles Garrett, Nick Chubb and Denzel Ward gave the era its recognizable core.
Its final meaning is still being written.
Timeline
How it unfolded
Before 2018
What came before
The restored franchise returned in 1999 but cycled through leadership and quarterbacks, with Thomas providing Hall of Fame stability amid the turnover.
2021-01-10
Wild Card: Cleveland Browns vs Pittsburgh Steelers
2021-01-17
Divisional Round: Cleveland Browns vs Kansas City Chiefs
2024-01-13
Wild Card: Cleveland Browns vs Houston Texans
Still unfolding
Where the story stands
This chapter remains active, so its final place in franchise history is still being written.
The core