Cleveland Browns Week 1 Preview 2026: Browns vs. Jaguars

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Sept. 13, 2026 1:00 PM ET CBS EverBank Stadium, Jacksonville, FL

The Cleveland Browns open the 2026 season in Jacksonville against the Jaguars. The Browns have invested heavily in their roster on both sides of the ball and enter the year looking to establish themselves as legitimate AFC North competitors. Nick Chubb, when healthy, gives Cleveland one of the most physical and reliable running games in the conference.

Players to Watch
Player Team Why They Matter
Myles Garrett Browns One of Browns's top players heading into Browns's Week 1 matchup
Shedeur Sanders Browns One of Browns's top players heading into Browns's Week 1 matchup
Joe Thomas Browns One of Browns's top players heading into Browns's Week 1 matchup
Trevor Lawrence Jaguars Key player for Jaguars that the Browns defense will need to contain
Travis Hunter Jaguars Key player for Jaguars that the Browns defense will need to contain

Cleveland's defense has been a strength in recent seasons and will need to show up on the road against a Jaguars offense that can move the ball through the air. If the Browns can win the trenches -- which is always the intent -- and grind this into a physical contest, they give themselves a strong chance at a road win. A Week 1 victory in a tough venue would be an early statement of Cleveland's ambitions for the season.

What to Watch
Storyline Why It Matters
Browns offense, Week 1 debut First look at how the unit performs under 2026 roster and coaching changes
Jaguars defense The first test for Browns skill players coming out of the preseason
Turnover margin Week 1 games are often decided by turnovers before teams find their rhythm
Check back after the game for the full recap with final stats and highlights.

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