The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for their first preseason game against the Carolina Panthers, looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. A key focus will be rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, tasked with leading the team in the absence of veteran Joe Flacco and other quarterbacks. With limited first-team practice, his performance against a tough Panthers defense will be crucial for establishing depth at the quarterback position.

Another area to watch is the kicking game, as confidence in kicker Dustin Hopkins has been shaky following last season's struggles. Young receivers will have a chance to impress, particularly with established players like Jerry Jeudy absent for the game. The Browns' rookie defenders, Mason Graham and Carson Schwesinger, will also be under scrutiny as they aim to solidify their roles on a revamped defense.

The Cleveland Browns are set to open their training camp on July 23, 2025, and all eyes will be on kicker Dustin Hopkins. After a disappointing performance in the previous season, Hopkins begins a new three-year contract extension, making the stakes higher than ever. As the team prepares, the focus will also shift to the specialists and the return game, crucial components for the Browns’ success this season.

With training camp just around the corner, the Browns’ special teams are looking for a resurgence, especially in the kicking game. Hopkins’ performance will be closely monitored as he aims to rebound from last year’s struggles. Alongside him, the return game will also be pivotal, potentially altering field position and providing much-needed momentum.

As the NFL fantasy football season reaches its climax in Week 18, many players are still vying for the championship. While some leagues have concluded their seasons, others are keeping the competition alive, particularly in kicker selections. Managers who have been streaming kickers throughout the season will want to optimize their choices for this final week. Jason Sanders emerges as the top pick, having a solid roster percentage, making him a reliable option for those still in contention.

Riley Patterson of the Atlanta Falcons is highlighted as a prime streaming option, especially given his performance in recent weeks and the favorable matchup against the Carolina Panthers, who have been generous to opposing kickers. Other kickers to consider include Brandon McManus, who is set to face the struggling Chicago Bears, and rookie Cam Little, who has proven effective in recent games and faces the Indianapolis Colts.

On the flip side, several kickers should be avoided this week. Dustin Hopkins of the Cleveland Browns has struggled significantly this season and faces a tough matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Similarly, Cairo Santos of the Chicago Bears has seen limited opportunities and should not be trusted against the Green Bay Packers, who have been tough on kickers. As fantasy managers finalize their rosters, these insights will be crucial in making the right decisions to secure a championship victory.

The Cincinnati Bengals are still in contention for a playoff spot despite a challenging season, currently sitting at 6-8. They face the Cleveland Browns, who are struggling at 3-11, in a crucial matchup that could help the Bengals keep their postseason hopes alive.

Quarterback Joe Burrow and receiver Ja'Marr Chase are having standout seasons, with Chase leading the league in several receiving categories. Coach Zac Taylor emphasizes the importance of focusing on winning one game at a time.

The Browns, on the other hand, are dealing with quarterback uncertainty, having benched Jameis Winston for Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Cleveland's star cornerback Denzel Ward is ready to take on the challenge of defending against Chase.