NEW ORLEANS — The Cleveland Browns’ aspirations for a successful 2024 season have all but vanished following a humiliating 35-14 defeat at the hands of the New Orleans Saints. Fans and analysts alike watched in disbelief as a once-promising campaign unraveled into a showcase of mistakes and failures.

The season had already taken a downward spiral, but Sunday’s performance laid bare every flaw plaguing this team. What was supposed to be a competitive year has turned into a grim reality check, showcasing a roster that has been consistently outplayed, even against a Saints team that isn’t known for its prowess.

No aspect of the game was spared from scrutiny. The Browns’ defense displayed monumental lapses, with blown coverages that left receivers wide open. Special teams coverage was abysmal, and missed field goals underscored a lack of discipline and focus. Although fans may have felt a sense of relief with no back-breaking penalties or turnovers this week, the absence of these issues feels minor compared to the overall chaos. With seven games left in the season, each match against tougher defenses may worsen their prospects.

Despite gaining 443 yards against one of the league’s weakest defenses, the Browns’ offensive flow was dismal. Big plays were few and far between, a stark contrast to what is often expected from a professional football team. The offensive creativity was sorely lacking, raising questions about the coaching staff’s efficacy in maximizing player potential.

Defensively, the Browns must now certainly be aware of Taysom Hill; he consistently exploited their weaknesses, further highlighting their struggle to contain dual-threat players.

With this loss, the Browns extend their losing streak to eight out of nine games. Their lone victory being a surprising win over the Ravens seems like a distant memory. The team that started with so much promise, aiming for a shot at the division title, has now left fans wondering how deep into the draft they will land in the upcoming April selections.

The silver lining? A clash with the Pittsburgh Steelers awaits in just a few days—a matchup that historically serves as a possible morale booster, even in the bleakest of seasons. However, the gravity of recent performances casts a shadow over any potential resurgence.

This turbulent season often leads to shake-ups within the organization. Head coach Kevin Stefanski’s future hangs in the balance, and while it may be too soon to consider his dismissal, the arguments for his retention are dwindling. General Manager Andrew Berry's craftsmanship has fallen under scrutiny as well, particularly following the controversial acquisition of Deshaun Watson that compromised the team’s built-up momentum toward contention.

At 2-8, the season remains mathematically alive, but the hopes for a playoff run are all but extinguished. If there’s any doubt about why the Browns find themselves here, Sunday’s display in New Orleans made it painfully clear: a lack of execution on both sides of the ball has derailed a season that once promised so much.

As the Browns prepare for their next challenge, fans can only wonder: can this team turn things around, or is rock bottom just the beginning of a longer rebuild?