Grading the Browns positions in their improbably Week 3 victory against the Green Bay Packers
Miraculously, the Cleveland Browns came away with a victory against the Green Bay Packers in Week 3. The win was defined by toughness, determination, and a great defensive and special teams effort.
The Browns’ offense was once again led by Joe Flacco, who turned in another mediocre performance. Thanks to the efforts of running back Quinshon Judkins and kicker Andre Szymt, the Browns were able to put together 13 points after Flacco set the offense up in field-goal range. Still, their 236 total yards were just enough to beat the Packers, despite being outgained on offense. Judkins contributed most of the production with 94 rushing yards on 18 carries.
Defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and his defense, on the other hand, were a fun watch as they turned in another productive game. They held the Packers to just 264 yards of total offense after Green Bay had posted 427 yards the previous week against the Washington Commanders. Carson Schwesinger and Myles Garrett led the way with their phenomenal efforts, combining for 16 tackles and 1.5 sacks. If they continue to play to their fullest potential, the Browns should be able to stay competitive in every game on their 2025 schedule.
Now, let’s take a look at how the Browns’ positions graded out in this Week 3 victory against the Packers:
Quarterback: D-
In a satisfying Cleveland win, it wasn’t thanks to any heroic play by starting quarterback Joe Flacco. Before the Browns took control of the game in the fourth quarter, Flacco struggled to find open receivers and sustain offensive drives against Green Bay. He finished completing 21 of 36 passes for 142 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception. Luckily for the Browns, his best decision-making came on their game-winning field goal drive in the fourth quarter.
Before the late turnaround, it would’ve been safe to assume this was Flacco’s last start for Cleveland. The Browns’ 2025 rookie class has been the brightest spot of the season, and developing those players is clearly a priority—especially if they help secure wins. Flacco will remain the starter with a short leash if the team continues winning, but expect to see Dillon Gabriel sooner rather than later if the Browns lose to the Detroit Lions in Week 4.
Running backs: B
After warming up in his NFL debut last week, rookie Quinshon Judkins broke out in this game. On 18 carries, he collected 94 yards and the Browns’ only touchdown. He finished with a 5.2 yards-per-carry average—a welcome sight after Cleveland’s early-season rushing struggles. Fellow running back Jerome Ford also contributed, hauling in four receptions for 10 yards.
The re-emergence of the run game is vital to the Browns’ offensive success, especially if a rookie quarterback takes over. Judkins’ playmaking ability allowed Kevin Stefanski to expand his play calling, even if execution was inconsistent due to quarterback play. Still, Judkins earned every bit of his production in this Week 3 win. We’ll see if he can keep it going, with hopes of seeing more from fellow rookie Dylan Sampson as well.
Wide receivers/tight ends: C+
With Flacco struggling to find rhythm, it was a quiet afternoon for Cleveland’s receivers. When they did get opportunities, they made the most of them, resulting in fewer drops compared to previous weeks. Veteran tight end David Njoku led the team with five catches for 40 yards, while Cedric Tillman hauled in all three of his targets for 26 yards.
After the win, it was announced that Joe Flacco would start at least one more game. The Lions’ secondary will be a tough matchup, but the Browns’ rushing attack, led by Judkins, may help open things up. Kevin Stefanski has done a solid job scheming receivers open—the plays just need better execution on both ends of the quarterback-receiver connection.
Offensive line: C
The offensive line did a respectable job protecting both the running backs and Joe Flacco against Green Bay’s defense. Despite injuries at tackle and Joel Bitonio playing limited snaps, this group managed a solid showing that enabled some offensive production. Center Ethan Pocic stood out with a 66.7 PFF grade and impressed with his awareness on the Browns’ final offensive play, quickly spotting the ball in time for a crucial spike.
The unit will be tested again in Week 4 against Aidan Hutchinson and the Lions’ front. With Dawand Jones out for the season, the line must continue building chemistry. If they can give Flacco time, perhaps he’ll connect with open receivers he missed last Sunday.
Defensive line: A
It was another dominant outing for the Browns’ defensive front, marking three straight weeks of strong play. Myles Garrett led the way with six tackles and half a sack, bringing his season total to four, second in the NFL behind Rashan Gary. Defensive tackle Maliek Collins also made a big impact with five tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Preseason standout Adin Huntington added four tackles and half a sack, helping the line control the trenches against a talented Packers offense. Schwartz’s defensive line now faces Detroit, whose offensive line has been average in 2025. This could be a matchup the Browns will look to exploit for more big plays.
Linebackers: B+
Rookie Carson Schwesinger continues to impress, leading the team with 10 tackles, including a sack on Packers quarterback Jordan Love. His speed, strength, and instincts have already shown star potential. Devin Bush also stayed hot with seven tackles, bringing his season total to 22, well on pace to surpass his 2024 mark of 76.
This group has been far from a weak link. Alongside the defensive line, they’ve provided game-changing impact in all three contests so far. If Schwesinger and Bush maintain this level of play along with the stellar defensive line, more Browns victories are sure to follow.
Defensive secondary: B+
After a shaky performance against Baltimore, the Browns’ secondary bounced back with a strong outing in Week 3. They held the Packers without a big receiving threat and limited Jordan Love to just 183 passing yards, his season low. Grant Delpit was the standout with nine tackles and a game-changing interception late in the fourth quarter. Denzel Ward also contributed five tackles, a pass breakup, and a 67.8 PFF grade.
Nearly everyone in the secondary improved from last week, which is a step in the right direction heading into tough matchups with the Lions and other NFC contenders. With Sam LaPorta, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and Jameson Williams on deck, the Browns' secondary will need another disciplined performance in Week 4.
This article originally appeared on Browns Wire: Browns Report Card: Grading every position in the Week 3 victory
Category: Football
