Patriots fall 37-13 to Browns in preseason finale
New England lost to Cleveland 37-13 in the final preseason game, with rookie quarterback Tommy DeVito throwing a touchdown and the Browns' Dillon Gabriel throwing three scores before the roster deadline.
The New England Patriots were defeated 37-13 by the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on Thursday night, the final preseason contest before the league’s 53-man roster deadline. Rookie quarterback Tommy DeVito completed two of four passes for 55 yards and ran for 16 yards, connecting with wide receiver Kyle Williams for a 45-yard touchdown on the opening drive. Backup quarterback Behren Morton entered later, completing 18 of 28 passes for 123 yards but throwing two interceptions.
Running back Hassan Haskins led the Patriots’ ground attack with 38 yards on 11 carries, while JaMycal Hasty added 34 scrimmage yards. Veteran lineman Greg Van Roten started at guard, and James Hudson III and Caleb Lomu anchored the offensive line.
For Cleveland, quarterback Dillon Gabriel was 12 of 15 for 186 yards and three touchdowns in the first half, helping the Browns build a 27-13 lead at halftime. Rookie quarterback Taylen Green took over in the second half, adding a 30-yard scramble and a 34-13 score to complete the Browns’ victory.
Defensively, the Patriots recorded 11 tackles from rookie Namdi Obiazor but failed to generate a sack or turnover. The Browns’ defense logged three sacks, with contributions from veteran pass rushers.
Special teams saw veteran punter Matt Haack deliver four punts averaging 46.5 yards, including a 63-yard kick, while rookie kicker Andy Borregales made both of his field-goal attempts and an extra point.
The loss leaves the Patriots with roster decisions to make before the deadline, as they evaluate depth at quarterback, running back, tight end and the offensive line.