The Browns were dealt the NFL’s hardest schedule based on their opponents’ final 2023 records (.547). However, Browns fans fear not! Their slate isn’t as bleak as it might seem. I currently have Cleveland’s schedule as the fifth-hardest, but that outlook could become more favorable once the preseason starts, when we’ll hopefully get a chance to see how key offensive players are performing coming off injuries. The Browns’ final four games (Chiefs, at Bengals, Dolphins, at Ravens), which follow a trip to Pittsburgh in Week 14, are going to be a real test. In fact, that sequence currently ranks as the hardest final four games of any team in the league, per my models. But, again, that could change for the better. Another reason for optimism: the defense. That unit ranked top-two in passer rating, completion percentage allowed and QB pressures last season, creating a really solid win-total floor, especially given the Browns’ more favorable first five games to start the season.