Browns Rumors: Players-Only Meeting Held After Loss to Raiders Without Adams, Crosby

Following a 20-16 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, who were missing both Maxx Crosby and Davante Adams, the Cleveland Browns reportedly held a players-only meeting in hopes of finding a spark as they face a 1-3 start to their season.

The Athletic's Dianna Russini detailed the meeting ahead of Cleveland's Week 5 matchup with Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders.

Cleveland's franchise quarterback, Deshaun Watson, has been struggling alongside his team this season, throwing for four touchdowns, three interceptions and 727 yards over four games.

With Watson's struggles at the forefront of the Browns' offense, one Cleveland player told Russini that "he really gives us the best chance."

However, the team's struggles aren't solely on Watson, as the defense has also been underperforming. After finishing as the top-ranked unit last season, the Browns currently sit 11th in yards allowed per game (299).

Compounding the offensive issues for Cleveland is Watson's contract. He's in the third year of a five-year, $230 million contract and has failed to live up to expectations after being traded to the Browns from the Houston Texans.

Watson's contract carries dead salary cap hits of $172.77 million in 2025 and $99.835 million in 2026, making it extremely difficult to move on from him via release or trade.

Cleveland does have Jameis Winston as a viable backup if Watson's performances eventually result in a change under center. However, the Browns will be hoping that this week's team meeting will inspire a change in form for Watson and company.