Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Browns Fall 31-7 to Bills, Forcing Roster Changes

8/24/2026

33 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Cleveland Browns lost 31-7 to the Buffalo Bills in a preseason game, prompting roster decisions.
Shedeur Sanders completed 9 of 11 passes for 74 yards and a touchdown, also throwing a pick.
Deshaun Watson completed 5 of 12 passes for 35 yards and failed to move the offense.
The Browns' defense showed thin depth, with poor tackling, missed coverage, and a sack by Mike Hall.

History

Historical Context

After Art Modell moved the Browns to Baltimore in 1995, the NFL deactivated the franchise in 1996 and, via a 1998 agreement, sold the reactivated team to Al Lerner for $530 million. The new Cleveland Browns began play in 1999 with a 150-player expansion draft and a first-overall pick. Persistent struggles—including a 0-16 season in 2017—continue after a 31-7 preseason loss to Buffalo.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Cleveland Browns lost 31-7 to the Buffalo Bills in a preseason game, prompting roster decisions.
Shedeur Sanders completed 9 of 11 passes for 74 yards and a touchdown, also throwing a pick.
Deshaun Watson completed 5 of 12 passes for 35 yards and failed to move the offense.
The Browns' defense showed thin depth, with poor tackling, missed coverage, and a sack by Mike Hall.

1 / 2