Last time Browns were in first place: Revisiting the 2014 AFC North standings before it fell apart

The last time the Cleveland Browns claimed first place in the AFC North was during the 2014 season, a period marked by the emergence of a resurgence in the team's fortunes under the guidance of head coach Todd Monken. This accomplishment was short-lived, however, as the team subsequently struggled to maintain its momentum and ultimately finished the year with a 7-9 record.

Cleveland had risen to first place in the division in early November after a 3-1 record, thanks to a series of victories against tough opponents. The team's defense, under Pettine's watch, showed promise by allowing fewer than 20 points per game, while the offense, led by Brian Hoyer, struggled to consistently score touchdowns, often falling short with fewer than two. Despite these challenges, the Browns' performance was impressive enough to secure a playoff berth.

However, the team's subsequent five-game losing streak proved to be their downfall, as they finished with a mere 11.4 points per game in that span, well below league averages. The remainder of the AFC North also remained formidable, ultimately leading to Cleveland's last-place finish in the division. The Browns would not return to the playoff scene until the 2018 season, when they finished the year with a third-place record.