The Cleveland Browns have indeed established themselves as one of the most unexpected success stories of the 2026 NFL season. Despite facing doubts and entering the season without high expectations, Cleveland has turned its fortunes around, compiling a 4-2 record through the first six games.

The Browns’ strong performances have placed them atop the AFC North via tiebreakers, with Cleveland, Pittsburgh, and Baltimore all sitting at 4-2. Even former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce admitted he did not anticipate the Browns would find this level of success so early in the season.

Jason Kelce Makes Surprising Browns Admission After Cleveland Takes AFC North Lead

In the latest episode of the “New Heights” podcast, Jason discussed some of the NFL’s biggest surprises with his brother, Travis Kelce.

Among the topics they addressed was the Los Angeles Rams’ disappointing 18-16 loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, which dropped them to 2-4 and left them struggling near the bottom of the NFC West.

Though the Rams’ position near the bottom of the NFC West was surprising, Jason believed Cleveland’s turnaround deserved even greater attention.

In that context, Travis also noted how unusual Cleveland’s standing was, noting that the last time the Browns occupied first place in the AFC North in Week 10 or later was in the 2014 season. Jason explained that he never expected Cleveland to find success this season.

“This is why I think the Browns are more surprising that they’re 4-2 and that they’re at top of the AFC North,” Jason said. “I just like after the first game especially, I did not think the Browns (would) win 1 game… I just don’t think the Browns winning this year was on anybody’s bingo card.”

“All of the drama between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson, who’s going to be the quarterback, the way the defense looked that first week, Myles Garrett leaving, Todd Monkin was under a lot of criticism, people talking about him getting that job to begin with.”

The Browns strengthened their position with a comeback win over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.

Cleveland fell behind 10-0 early and managed just 107 yards entering the fourth quarter of the game. However, a late fumble by Baltimore running back Derrick Henry shifted the momentum and helped the Browns secure the win.

Watson completed 16 of his 26 pass attempts for 164 yards while adding 29 rushing yards on eight carries. He currently holds a grade of 68.5 in PFN’s NFL QB Impact rankings, placing him at No. 25.

Cleveland had previously moved to the top of the division after beating the Pittsburgh Steelers. The win over Baltimore allowed the Browns to reclaim that position, while also improving their record against AFC North opponents to 2-0.

The game was significant for Monken, who earlier served as Baltimore’s offensive coordinator. Despite the challenges the team has faced, the Browns have exceeded expectations under his leadership.

That is why Jason kept praising the team for this incredible season.

“I think it’s an incredible testament to Monken and what the Browns have been able to do since then to be at the top of the AFC North,” Jason said. “They beat the Ravens yesterday, who didn’t have Lamar Jackson. The Browns have been overachieving by quite a bit, and I did not see that happening.”

Cleveland will attempt to maintain its momentum when it faces the Tennessee Titans on Sunday.