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Browns' Kicking Woes Continue After Narrow Loss to Bengals

9/8/2025

37 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Cleveland Browns narrowly lost 17-16 to the Cincinnati Bengals, with kicker Andre Szmyt missing key kicks.
Szmyt's struggles highlight the team's long-standing kicking problems.
General manager Andrew Berry has tried various kickers without finding a dependable solution.
Extending Dustin Hopkins after a disappointing season led to Szmyt's unproven position.
The Browns must decide whether to continue with Szmyt or explore other options.

History

Historical Context

The Cleveland Browns returned to the NFL in 1999 after a three-year hiatus following their controversial relocation to Baltimore in 1995. Despite early hopes, the franchise has struggled with instability, cycling through 20 kickers since their return. This ongoing issue, highlighted by Andre Szmyt's recent missed kicks, reflects the broader challenges the team faces in regaining competitive footing in the league.

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Story summary

The Cleveland Browns narrowly lost 17-16 to the Cincinnati Bengals, with kicker Andre Szmyt missing key kicks.
Szmyt's struggles highlight the team's long-standing kicking problems.
General manager Andrew Berry has tried various kickers without finding a dependable solution.
Extending Dustin Hopkins after a disappointing season led to Szmyt's unproven position.
The Browns must decide whether to continue with Szmyt or explore other options.

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