It’s a new day in Cleveland. While LeBron James is gone, there is not the same gloom and doom as it was the last time he left.
What’s the difference? It might be because the Browns could be a decent football team this year. The organization looks different at the top with the hiring of GM John Dorsey. Furthermore, they have a QB that took a team to the playoffs last season in Tyrod Taylor. Plus, they brought in a three-time Pro Bowler in WR Jarvis Landry, and after Thursday night’s performance, they could have a franchise QB with the number one overall pick in Baker Mayfield.
According to former Browns RB Earnest Byner, there is a different vibe with the Browns this year.
“The mentality I think has changed,” Byner told TMZ Sports. “When I met with the guys, not just me. When we had the rookie dinner, and was able to get a feel for Baker(Mayfield), for (Nick) Chubb, for (Denzel)Ward. But also, get a feel for some of the veterans who attended the dinner. It just felt different. I think there is reason for them to feel good about the Browns. To me, I’m seeing at least 8-8. I’m predicting at least 8-8 this year.”
Also, Byner is very high on Mayfield, and loves the rookie signal caller’s attitude:
“Yeah, he’s cocky. That’s okay. Be cocky,” Byner said. “But, also be a winner. And, the winner mentality is always learning, always growing, always developing. And, I think this guy has that.”
8-8 is a great starting point for the new look Browns, and if Mayfield indeed has the goods, the future is super bright for the Browns. Last season, in the AFC, 9-7 was good enough to make the playoffs, so they could sneak into the playoffs if Byner’s prediction is correct.
Even with LeBron in Los Angeles, the sun might still be shining bright in Cleveland.