The NFL schedule makers didn't waste any time twisting the knife for Cleveland Browns fans. When the 2026 season kicks off, the Browns will face a familiar—and painful—reminder of their quarterback missteps right in Week 1.

Their first opponent? The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, led by none other than Baker Mayfield. Yes, the same quarterback Cleveland drafted first overall, who once delivered a playoff appearance that seemed like a miracle for the franchise. But after an injury-plagued final season, the Browns chose to move on, replacing him with the high-cost, high-risk Deshaun Watson—a decision that has clearly backfired.

Now, Watson remains in Cleveland, set to compete with Shedeur Sanders for the starting job, while Dillon Gabriel and Taylen Green round out the quarterback room. Most analysts expect the Browns to use their 2027 first-round pick on a quarterback, but first, they'll have to navigate what looks like another rocky season at the most critical position in sports.

Meanwhile, Mayfield has flourished in Tampa Bay, developing into one of the NFL's top quarterbacks after bouncing around the league. For Cleveland fans, seeing him succeed elsewhere is tough enough—but having him on the opposing sideline in the season opener is a harsh reminder of what could have been. It's the kind of storyline that makes you wonder if the schedule makers are also part-time comedians.