5 NFL sleeper teams that might change the playoff picture in 2022

BEREA, OHIO - NOVEMBER 23: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns runs a drill during a practice at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on November 23, 2022 in Berea, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
BEREA, OHIO - NOVEMBER 23: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns runs a drill during a practice at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on November 23, 2022 in Berea, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) /
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NFL Power Rankings
NFL Power Rankings, Cleveland Browns, Jacoby Brissett – Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports /

NFL Sleeper #1: Cleveland Browns (4-7)

Deshaun Watson’s suspension disrupted Cleveland’s plans for the 2022 season. A trade with the Texans made the Browns a team to fear in the AFC. When league officials suspended No.4, many believed Cleveland’s playoff odds were non-existent. Leadership from Jacoby Brissett has kept Kevin Stefanski’s squad relevant. His poise in the clutch transcends to his teammates, enhancing the team’s chemistry. Brissett ranks 13th in passing yards (2,608) and has been efficient.

Watson’s suspension is over, and the Browns need help gaining ground in the Conference. Divisional games against the Steelers, Bengals, and Ravens are vital games on the schedule. Defeating the Commanders and Saints will also help the Browns’ overall record.

Cleveland is capable of making a nice run toward a playoff berth. Their fate will be in their quarterback’s hands, but will Watson be enough to save the season?

Close standings lead to an intense playoff picture. Franchises who fight their way into playoff contention receive a boost in momentum -making them dangerous in the post-season. The race for the Vince Lombardi trophy will be interesting, and I am interested to see who advances.