If you’re waking up on this Sunday, January 18, 2026, and scouring the internet to find out what time does browns play today, I have some news that might sting a little. The short answer? They don’t.
While today is a massive day for NFL fans because it's the Divisional Round of the playoffs, the Cleveland Browns are currently watching from home. Honestly, it’s been a rough ride for the Dawg Pound lately. After finishing the 2025-2026 regular season with a 5-12 record, the Browns weren't exactly in the hunt for a Super Bowl run this January.
Why the Cleveland Browns Aren't on the Field Today
So, if you’re wondering why your Sunday jersey is staying in the closet, it’s because Cleveland’s season officially wrapped up back on January 4th. They actually ended on a high note, beating the Cincinnati Bengals 20-18 in Week 18, but it wasn't enough to dig them out of the bottom of the AFC North.
Right now, the team is in a total state of flux. If you follow the news, you know the front office made the massive call to fire head coach Kevin Stefanski on January 5th. It felt like the end of an era, even if it was a rocky one.
Today, while other teams are fighting for a spot in the Conference Championships, the Browns’ leadership is busy in meeting rooms. They’ve been interviewing candidates like Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski. He's only 30, which would make him the youngest head coach in NFL history if they actually pull the trigger on that hire.
Today's NFL Divisional Round Schedule (January 18, 2026)
Since you’ve already got the wings ready and the TV tuned to football, you might as well watch the teams that are playing. Even though the answer to what time does browns play today is "not at all," there are two huge games happening:
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- Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots: This kicks off at 3:00 PM ET on ESPN and ABC. It’s the battle for the AFC side of the bracket.
- Los Angeles Rams vs. Chicago Bears: This one is the primetime slot at 6:30 PM ET on NBC and Peacock.
It’s weird seeing the Bears in this position while the Browns are at home, but that’s the parity of the league for you.
What’s Next for Cleveland Fans?
Basically, the "season" for Browns fans has shifted from the scoreboard to the draft board. Because of that 5-12 record, Cleveland is sitting on some serious draft capital. They currently hold the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
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There's also a ton of talk about the quarterback situation. Shedeur Sanders has been the name on everyone’s lips in Cleveland. Whether the team decides to build around a rookie or look for a veteran bridge under a new coaching staff is the million-dollar question.
The Reality of the 2026 Offseason
You've probably noticed that the vibe around Huntington Bank Field is a bit tense. It’s been a long road since that 1989 division title, and the 33-season drought continues. But there is a silver lining. The defense, led by Myles Garrett (who put up a staggering 23 sacks this past season), remains one of the best units in the league.
If the Browns can find an offensive identity and a coach who can manage the locker room, 2026 could look very different. For now, though, the search for what time does browns play today ends with a look toward next September.
If you want to stay ahead of the curve for the upcoming season, keep a close eye on the NFL Scouting Combine in late February. That’s where the "new" Browns will really start to take shape. For today, sit back, enjoy the playoffs as a neutral observer, and start scouting those top collegiate QBs.
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Next Steps for Browns Fans:
- Monitor the Head Coach Search: Watch for updates on Grant Udinski or other second-interview candidates.
- Check the 2026 Opponents: The 2026 home schedule is already set, featuring games against the Ravens, Bengals, Steelers, Texans, and Falcons.
- Draft Prep: Start looking at mock drafts for that No. 6 overall pick, specifically focusing on offensive line depth or a franchise signal-caller.