Browns' Playoff Run Ends in Loss to Texans; Watson Expected to Return Next Season

Despite a late-season surge led by backup QB Joe Flacco, the Browns fell to the Texans in the AFC playoffs. Rookie QB C.J. Stroud shines in Texans' victory.

The Cleveland Browns' season ended with a 45-14 loss to the Houston Texans in the AFC playoffs, despite a late-season surge led by backup quarterback Joe Flacco.
Deshaun Watson, the Browns' starting quarterback, missed much of the season due to a shoulder injury but is expected to return next season.
The Browns' defense was notably inconsistent, performing well at home but poorly on the road.
Despite the playoff loss, the Browns' management and coaching staff are viewed positively, with head coach Kevin Stefanski expected to sign a contract extension soon.
The Houston Texans' rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud had an impressive performance in the playoff game, becoming the youngest QB in NFL history to win a playoff game.