Monday night in Denver will mark a significant chapter in the NFL’s Week 13 as the Cleveland Browns (3-8) face off against the Denver Broncos (7-5). The game not only carries playoff implications but also serves as a homecoming for former Broncos receiver Jerry Jeudy, who left Denver in search of a fresh start and has since found new life with the Browns.
Jerry Jeudy, once the Broncos’ highly touted first-round pick in 2020, struggled to meet expectations during his tenure in Denver. Following a tumultuous three seasons, Jeudy requested a trade and landed in Cleveland, where he signed a three-year, $58 million extension. His return to Empower Field at Mile High comes at a time when he’s flourishing, posting 19 catches for 300 yards and a touchdown over his last three games.
Teaming up with Jameis Winston, Jeudy is averaging nearly 100 yards per game since Week 8, demonstrating the chemistry the Browns hoped for when they acquired him. Ironically, it’s the type of production Denver fans longed to see during his time with the Broncos.
Despite having a solid relationship with Broncos head coach Sean Payton, Jeudy felt overshadowed by Courtland Sutton, Denver’s other star receiver. Sutton, however, is thriving in his own right, catching 36 passes for 467 yards and three touchdowns in the last five weeks. He’s coming off a standout game in Week 12 and even showcased his versatility by throwing a touchdown pass to rookie quarterback Bo Nix in Week 9 against Baltimore.
Speaking of Nix, the rookie sensation is making waves in his debut season. Named NFL Rookie of the Week for three consecutive weeks, Nix has been on a historic run, throwing for at least 200 yards and two touchdowns without an interception in each of his last three games. His poise and playmaking ability have propelled Denver into the playoff conversation, with the Broncos currently holding the seventh and final AFC playoff spot.
Nix’s ability to spread the ball around has rejuvenated Denver’s offense, which will need to maintain its momentum against a Cleveland defense that has shown flashes of brilliance despite the team’s struggles.
The Browns enter Monday night with a dismal 4-14 record in Denver, a city that has delivered some of the most heartbreaking moments in franchise history. From “The Drive” to “The Fumble,” Cleveland’s postseason dreams were repeatedly crushed by the Broncos in the late 1980s. However, the Browns can take solace in their recent victories over playoff-contending teams like the Ravens and Steelers, proving they’re capable of spoiling the party in Denver.
To prepare for the altitude challenge, the Browns have utilized their altitude training room back in Cleveland, simulating the thin air conditions they’ll face at Mile High. Jeudy, well aware of the altitude’s impact from his time in Denver, has emphasized the importance of adjusting to the unique conditions.
Adding another layer to the storyline, Jeudy will face off against his childhood friend and former Alabama teammate Patrick Surtain II. The two grew up in Florida, squaring off frequently in youth football. Now, they’ll rekindle their rivalry under the bright lights of Monday Night Football.
For the Broncos, a win would push them three games above .500 for the first time since their 3-0 start in 2021, solidifying their playoff positioning. Meanwhile, the Browns, clinging to faint postseason hopes, aim to play spoiler while continuing to develop their newfound offensive identity under Winston.
Both teams have much to prove, and Monday night promises a compelling clash of storylines and stakes as Jeudy’s return headlines this pivotal AFC matchup.
