The Cleveland Browns looked sharper than expected in their season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals, but one key area continues to worry fans: the wide receiver group.
According to NFL analyst Warren Sharp, the Browns posted the third-highest rate of incompletions (35.7%) due to receiver errors. This includes dropped passes and miscommunications that directly impacted offensive drives.
highest rate of incompletions due to receiver error:
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) September 9, 2025
37.5% – Matthew Stafford
36.4% – Jayden Daniels
35.7% – Joe Flacco
33.3% – Tua Tagovailoa
30.8% – Dak Prescott
30.0% – Geno Smith
28.6% – Sam Darnold
28.6% – J.J. McCarthy
26.7% – Michael Penix Jr.
25.0% – Aaron Rodgers
25.0%…
Jerry Jeudy: The Lone Reliable Target
While the WR group struggled overall, Jerry Jeudy remains the standout. He made the expected plays and showed the ability to consistently get open, highlighting his importance in Cleveland’s passing game.
Unfortunately, the lack of other established wide receivers hurt the offense. Two of Joe Flacco’s throws even bounced off receivers’ hands and turned into interceptions, further emphasizing the group’s struggles.
Other Offense Highlights
Despite WR issues:
- The Browns’ defense performed as anticipated—stout and dominant, keeping them competitive.
- The kicker Andre Szmyt missed key opportunities, which could have changed the outcome.
- The running game was inefficient, but rookie Quinshon Judkins is expected to improve the ground attack, possibly as early as Week 2 vs. Ravens.
What Needs to Change at WR
The stat clearly indicates that the Browns’ wide receivers must improve immediately. With salary cap space available from restructuring Denzel Ward’s contract, the team could explore trade options to bring in an experienced WR if the current group doesn’t step up.
Cleveland fans should watch closely over the next few weeks, as the WR performance could make or break the Browns’ offensive success this season.
See More
- Browns announce unofficial depth chart for Week 2 vs. Ravens
- Chiefs Fall in Brazil: Five Key Takeaways from Week 1 Loss
- Why Did the Cleveland Browns Lose? Breaking Down the 17-16 Loss to the Bengals
- Browns Fall Short in Week 1: Bengals Edge Out a 17-16 Victory
- Will Shedeur Sanders Play for the Browns in 2025?
- Can the Browns Move the Ball—Both Run and Pass? A Week 1 Preview vs. Bengals
- Cleveland Browns Sign Quinshon Judkins, Wrapping Up 2025 Draft Class
- Browns sign RB Quinshon Judkins
- Browns vs Bengals: Can Cleveland’s Offense Find Its Rhythm in Week 1?
- Final in Brazil: Chiefs vs Chargers 2025 – A Historic NFL Clash
