3 Bold Predictions for the Browns Heading Into 2019 Season

For the first time in what seems like forever, the Cleveland Browns have expectations heading into a new season. The team wheeled and deal this summer, acquiring Odell Beckham, Jr. and Olivier Vernon from the New York Giants.

Baker Mayfield looks like the real deal after some questioned the selection of him with the first-overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. With the 2019 almost upon us, here are three bold predictions for everyone's favorite underdog this year.

3. OBJ Leads League in TDs

Cleveland Browns v Tampa Bay Buccaneers / Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

OBJ is finally out of the dumpster fire that is the New York Giants, and he's primed for a big year with Cleveland. His best touchdown season came in 2015 when his 13 touchdowns were tied for second in the NFL, one off the league-leading pace. There's a good chance Beckham flirts with 15-17 touchdowns this season, especially with Mayfield's gun-slinger style of play. New head coach Freddie Kitchens will look to get the ball to OBJ early and often, so as long as he can stay healthy, Beckham should surpass 100 receptions, 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns.

2. Mayfield Finishes Top-5 in MVP Race

Cleveland Browns v Tampa Bay Buccaneers / Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images

As previously explained, Mayfield looked the part of an NFL quarterback in his rookie year in Cleveland. Now, the second-year pro has two top receivers in Beckham and Jarvis Landry, a dynamic running back in Nick Chubb and an athletic tight end in David Njoku. Mayfield is set up perfectly to take the league by storm behind an upgraded offensive line and a bevy of weapons. The headlines gravitate towards the outspoken quarterback, and he'll have ESPN wrapped around his finger early in the season. After bursting out of the gate hot, he and the Browns will hit a bump in the road, resulting in a top-5 MVP finish for the second-year quarterback.

1. Browns Miss the Playoffs

Jacksonville Jaguars v Baltimore Ravens / Todd Olszewski/Getty Images

I'm all in on the hype train that is the Cleveland Browns, but even I can recognize that it's a bit overblown. The Browns have proven nothing so far, and the hype will swallow them whole down the stretch this season. The Ravens are too talented defensively, and will be dynamic enough on offense to claim the top wildcard spot. As for the second spot, I have Nick Foles and his magic leading the Jags back to the playoffs. The AFC South is weakened with Andrew Luck's retirement, and that defense is still dominant. The Browns will be on the outside looking in during the playoffs.