The Cleveland Browns found themselves in hot water this Sunday not just with the opposing Kansas City Chiefs but also with their own fans. Between the team’s lackluster performance this season, freezing weather, and a divisive nod to Taylor Swift’s superstardom, the Browns inadvertently added fuel to the fire of fan dissatisfaction.
Sunday’s matchup saw one of the emptiest pregame scenes in Cleveland’sMuni Lot tailgating tradition. Reports noted sparse crowds, with even diehard fans reluctant to brave the wet, 40-degree weather, which felt colder thanks to a biting wind chill. Huntington Bank Stadium reflected similar apathy; only the lower bowl neared full capacity by kickoff.
NFL joins the Swiftie celebration with Taylor Swift birthday tribute starring Travis Kelce
The Browns‘ 3-10 record and the announcement of Deshaun Watson’s 2025 return as starting quarterback have further disheartened fans. Displeasure over the decision reportedly led to some season ticket cancellations, contributing to the subdued atmosphere.
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Taylor Swift and the Browns’ pregame gamble
As if fan frustration wasn’t enough, the Browns sparked online chatter for toying with Taylor Swift-related “voodoo.” In an unusual pregame move, Swift’s guitarist performed on the field, despite the pop superstar’s absence. The gesture may have been an attempt to energize the crowd, given Swift’s ties to Kansas City tight end Travis Kelce, but it backfired spectacularly.
Many fans viewed the pregame stunt as tempting fate. “Everyone knows not to mess with Tayvoodoo,” joked one fan on social media, referencing the purported bad luck associated with antagonizing Swift’s devoted fanbase.
Even the weather seemed to reflect the Browns‘ poor decision-making, with rain dampening spirits and testing the resolve of the most loyal attendees. Adding insult to injury, Swift herself skipped the game, leaving some fans regretting their own attendance.
Disappointment lingers
Despite the team’s efforts to cater to Swifties in the crowd, the absence of the pop icon, combined with the Browns‘ dismal season, left fans unimpressed. While Swift’s guitarist brought some excitement, many felt the move lacked payoff especially when the Browns faced another tough loss to the reigning Super Bowl champions.
As the season winds down, the Cleveland Browns will have to work hard to rebuild trust with their fanbase. For now, though, the combination of on-field struggles and ill-advised pregame decisions leaves fans questioning the team’s direction.
