The three hottest seats for the Cleveland Browns

The Browns fell far short of expectations in 2022, finishing 7-10 and missing the playoffs. If Cleveland can't find a winning formula in 2023, here are three people who could be on the hottest seats.

1. Head coach Kevin Stefanski

The 2020 NFL Coach of the Year started on a high note in Cleveland, taking the team to the playoffs for the first time since 2002 and getting the organization's first postseason win since 1995.

However, the Browns have since missed the playoffs in back-to-back seasons, putting the pressure squarely on the head coach, who only has a 26-24 regular-season record. (Stefanski is 1-1 in the playoffs.)

Stefanski has received criticism for his play-calling but insists he will continue in that role in 2023.

2. Quarterback Deshaun Watson

No kidding.

The Browns gave Watson a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract last offseason after trading three first-round picks (and more) for him to Houston. It was an eye-opening contract for a player who hadn't played since 2020 but Cleveland believes is a franchise QB.

However, Watson underwhelmed after returning from an 11-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. Watson went 3-3, throwing for 1,102 yards, seven touchdowns and five interceptions.

With a full offseason ahead, Watson aims to get back to the on-field form he had in 2020 when he led the NFL in passing yards (4,823). If he doesn't, the Browns are in deep trouble.

3. Offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr.

Cleveland expected Wills Jr. to be a star when it drafted him with the 10th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. However, the former Alabama standout has struggled in the NFL.