5 things to watch as Jets face Browns in Week 5 of 2026 NFL season

The New York Jets enter Week 5 of the 2026 NFL season with a chance to turn their 1-3 record around when they host the surging Cleveland Browns, a team that has won three of its first four games. After a disheartening loss to the Bears last week, the Jets must address key issues, starting with quarterback Geno Smith’s inconsistent play.

Smith followed a strong 300-yard performance against the Lions with a lackluster outing in Chicago, completing just eight passes and failing to convert on any of the Jets’ seven third-down attempts. The offense’s struggles were compounded by the defense’s inability to stop the run effectively, a problem that could ease this week with Cleveland’s leading rusher, Quinshon Judkins, averaging only three yards per carry.

New York’s defensive penalties also gifted the Bears eight first downs last week, a trend the Jets must correct to regain control of the game.

Special teams could play a pivotal role, as the Jets’ lone win over the Browns last season was fueled by explosive returns, including first-quarter touchdowns by Kene Nwangwu and Isaiah Williams. With Nwangwu back from injury, the unit has shown improvement, and another strong performance could provide a much-needed spark.

Additionally, the Jets’ defense has finally started generating turnovers, with Minkah Fitzpatrick ending their interception drought last week. The team now has four takeaways in four games, a stark contrast to last season’s infamous lack of turnovers until Week 6.

If New York can sustain this aggressive approach, it could be a turning point in their season.

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