Cleveland Browns Final Preseason Takeaways vs. Los Angeles Rams

The Cleveland Browns managed to squeeze past the Los Angeles Rams 19-17 in Saturday’s preseason finale, but the scoreboard hardly tells the story of what really mattered. With roster cuts looming, this game was less about winning and more about players making their final cases for a spot on the 53-man roster.

Rams Defense Shows Flashes Despite Loss

While the Rams walked away with the L, their defensive unit provided some bright spots that should have Sean McVay feeling cautiously optimistic. The pass rush was particularly active, recording six sacks against Cleveland’s quarterback rotation. Jamil Muhammad led the charge with two sacks, showing the kind of relentless pressure that can make coaches forget about depth chart positions.

Elias Neal also made his presence felt, adding another sack to his preseason resume. For a player fighting for roster spots, Neal’s timing couldn’t have been better. The defensive line’s collective effort resulted in consistent pressure throughout the game, something that will be crucial when the regular season begins.

Browns Ground Game Finds Success

Cleveland’s running backs had themselves a day against Los Angeles. The Browns consistently found running lanes, with their veteran-rookie combinations proving effective throughout the contest. Russell Gage capped off one scoring drive with a touchdown that had him celebrating with LeBron James’ signature gesture, clearly feeling at home in Cleveland.

The Browns’ offensive line deserves credit for creating those opportunities. Their run blocking was crisp and coordinated, allowing their backs to find the second level regularly. It’s the type of performance that makes coaches confident about their depth heading into the regular season.

Quarterback Play Shows Mixed Results

Dresser Winn had an up-and-down evening for the Rams, completing 15 of 23 passes for 191 yards and a touchdown. Early on, facing Cleveland’s starting defense, Winn looked overwhelmed. The pressure got to him, and his decision-making appeared rushed. However, once the Browns began rotating in their reserves, Winn settled into a rhythm.

His fourth-quarter touchdown drive was particularly impressive, showing the poise you want to see from a quarterback trying to make an impression. Winn’s ability to bounce back from early struggles demonstrated mental toughness that NFL coaches value.

Special Teams Units Make Their Mark

Both teams used this game to evaluate special teams contributors, and several players seized the opportunity. The Rams’ coverage units were solid throughout, though they didn’t create the game-changing plays that can separate borderline roster candidates from practice squad players.

Cleveland’s special teams showed more explosiveness, with their return units finding some creases in the Rams’ coverage. These units often determine the final roster spots, making every snap crucial for players on the bubble.

Standout Individual Performances

Terrance Ferguson finally made his preseason debut for the Rams after missing the first two games with a hamstring injury. The second-round pick from Oregon immediately showed why Los Angeles invested in him, hauling in a spectacular 33-yard reception that showcased his athleticism and route-running ability.

For Cleveland, multiple players such as former Oregon quarterback Dillon Gabriel stepped up when given the opportunities to do so. The Browns’ depth players showed they’re ready to contribute if called upon, which is exactly what you want to see in the final preseason game.

The defensive backs on both sides had their moments, with several pass breakups and solid coverage throughout the game. Tyler Ingle was particularly active for the Rams, delivering the kind of physical play that makes coaches take notice during film review.

Looking Ahead to Roster Decisions

With cuts scheduled for Tuesday, both coaching staffs now face the unenviable task of trimming their rosters. Players like Ferguson, who showed their potential despite limited action, likely secured their spots. Others will be sweating out the next 48 hours, knowing that one play or one coach’s opinion could determine their NFL future.

The Browns appear to have more clarity in their depth chart positions, while the Rams still have some question marks to resolve. McVay’s comments after the game suggested the coaching staff has some difficult decisions ahead, which is both good and bad news depending on your perspective.