Cleveland Browns had a few players that surely wished for a better performance against the Washington Commanders on Friday evening.

It’s only the preseason but Cleveland had a few miscues in a couple of key spots that might make you worry just a little bit.

The Browns’ starters looked good to begin the game, the ones that did play, it was hit and miss after that in the 17-15 loss.

Both teams had to play in wet conditions all night and that’s possibly a plus for Cleveland since they play in the AFC North. A weather delay forced the game to be delayed for nearly an hour and minutes, not kicking off till about 8:50.

Three players in particular stood out as having a not-so-good night, along with the weather.

K Cade York

For the second straight preseason game, York missed his only kick. It’s only the preseason and head coach Kevin Stefanski said postgame that he remains confident in York and won’t be bringing in another kicker. But the bottom line is kickers do matter, they can hurt you significantly late in games, and the Browns have one that is struggling mightily in exhibitions to start the 2023 campaign.

The problem has never been leg strength. The missed kick from about 46 yards last night would have been good from 55, but the accuracy remains the issue. York has to get the consistency down to ever be a good kicker in the NFL and he just hasn’t shown that as a pro yet.

QB Joshua Dobbs

Cleveland’s backup quarterback made his preseason debut last night and it was not a good one. Dobbs was inconsistent and off on some throws. Overall, Dobbs struggled to move the offense down the field. The Browns’ backup was 8-of-16 passing with an interception against the Commanders. Cleveland gave Dobbs some guaranteed money so he’s likely cemented in the backup role for now, but rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson could eventually make it interesting.

WR Anthony Schwartz

When the ball is going Schwartz’s way you kind of gasp if you’re a fan because you don’t know whether he catches it or not. On the other hand, when he’s running with the ball, you worry if he’s going to fumble it or not. Through two preseason games, Schwartz looks as good as done in terms of making the 53-man roster. There isn’t really a spot for him.

Schwartz doesn’t have the hand strength to make contested catches in a battle with a defensive back, which was evident against the Commanders. Through two preseason games, Schwartz is just a guy out there getting cardio in. 

Standouts arise from Browns preseason loss to Commanders

There was some good that came from the Browns loss to the Commanders last night.

Featured image via Scott Galvin USA TODAY-Sports.