CLEVELAND BROWNS (12-6)

Projected 2021 win total:

LAST YEAR: Finally, the breakthrough. Despite a lack of traditional offseason due to the COVID-19 pandemic, first-year coach Kevin Stefanski helped the Browns end 18-year playoff drought. Then, with Stefanski quarantined after testing positive for the coronavirus, Cleveland beat rival Pittsburgh in the wild-card round for its first postseason win since 1994. The Browns lost to Kansas City in the divisional round. Quarterback Baker Mayfield rebounded from a concerning 2019 season and solidified himself as the franchise’s long-term answer by throwing 31 touchdown passes (including playoffs) and displaying needed maturity and leadership. RB Nick Chubb rushed for 1,067 yards and scored 12 TDs despite missing four games with a knee injury. Cleveland’s offense carried the team despite losing star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. to a season-ending knee injury in Week 7. IMPORTANT ADDITIONS: DE Jadeveon Clowney, LB Anthony Walker, S John Johnson III, CB Troy Hill, DT Andrew Billings, DE Takk McKinley, rookie CB Greg Newsome II, rookie LB Jeremiah OwusuKoramoah, DT Malik Jackson. IMPORTANT LOSSES: DT Sheldon Richardson, DT Larry Ogunjobi, DE Olivier Vernon, LB B.J. Goodson, S Karl Joseph, S Andrew Sendejo.

NOTES: The Browns picked up the fifth-year contract option on Mayfield, but situation could become a distraction if not resolved quickly — or if he struggles early. Chubb, CB Denzel Ward and RG Wyatt Teller also are eligible for longterm deals. Beckham has made a quick recovery and appears to be full go. EXPECTATIONS: Sky-high. Loaded with offensive weapons, one of league’s best lines, and a revamped defense led by All-Pro end Myles Garrett has made the Browns legitimate AFC title contenders. Mayfield could take another step in his second season with Stefanski, voted AP Coach of the Year. Cleveland’s 1-2 punch with Chubb and Kareem Hunt gives the offense unique balance.