Andre Szmyt’s 56-Yard Field Goal Lifts Browns Past Steelers 27-24 in Thursday Night Thriller.

CLEVELAND, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns continued their impressive start to the 2026 NFL season Thursday night, defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers 27-24 after kicker Andre Szmyt connected on a 56-yard field goal with just 10 seconds remaining at Cleveland Browns Stadium. The victory improved Cleveland’s record to 3-1, marking the franchise’s first 3-1 start since 2001. Quarterback Deshaun Watson delivered another strong performance in a critical situation, directing his third consecutive fourth-quarter game-winning drive.

Cleveland appeared to be in control after building a 21-7 advantage during the second quarter. However, Pittsburgh fought back throughout the second half, eventually tying the game at 24 with less than two minutes remaining. Watson responded by moving the Browns into field goal position, giving Szmyt an opportunity to secure the victory. The winning possession featured Watson completing four of five passes for 46 yards, including two connections with wide receiver Jerry Jeudy that gained a combined 27 yards. Although Watson was sacked for a four-yard loss late in the drive, Szmyt successfully converted the longest field goal of his career. The kick also extended Szmyt’s streak to 22 consecutive successful field goal attempts. Watson finished the night completing 24 of 33 passes for 268 yards, one touchdown and one interception. His 181 passing yards in the first half represented his highest first-half total since joining Cleveland in 2022.

The Browns also extended their Thursday night winning streak to eight games, the longest active streak in the NFL. Four of those victories have come against Pittsburgh.

For the Steelers, the defeat dropped their record to 2-2 and continued their struggles in Thursday road games against AFC North opponents. Pittsburgh entered the matchup looking to establish control early, and the Steelers accomplished that during the opening quarter. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers helped Pittsburgh take a 7-0 lead when he connected with Roman Wilson on a 12-yard shovel pass that developed into a touchdown.

The Steelers controlled much of the first quarter, but Cleveland's defense provided a turning point early in the second. Cornerback Denzel Ward intercepted a Rodgers pass intended for Michael Pittman Jr., giving the Browns possession at their own 44-yard line.

That takeaway sparked an offensive surge that completely changed the direction of the game. Running back Jaleel McLaughlin tied the score at 7-7 with a 28-yard touchdown run. McLaughlin broke multiple tackles before finding enough space to reach the end zone.

Cleveland continued its momentum midway through the quarter when rookie running back Quinshon Judkins scored on a two-yard rushing touchdown.

The scoring opportunity followed one of Cleveland's biggest offensive plays of the evening, a 60-yard completion from Watson to wide receiver Denzel Boston that moved the Browns deep into Pittsburgh territory. With 1:22 remaining before halftime, Watson connected with tight end Harold Fannin Jr. on a two-yard touchdown pass, extending Cleveland's advantage to 21-7. Fannin's reception marked his third touchdown over the previous two games.

The Browns' 21-point second quarter represented their first time reaching that scoring total in a second period since their Week 13 matchup against the Tennessee Titans during the 2020 season. Pittsburgh managed to reduce the deficit before halftime when Chris Boswell converted a 31-yard field goal with eight seconds remaining, sending the Steelers into the locker room trailing 21-10. Despite Cleveland's strong first half, Pittsburgh remained within striking distance. The Steelers began closing the gap during the second half, with Rodgers leading the offense on several important possessions. Early in the fourth quarter, Rodgers connected with tight end Darnell Washington on a 21-yard touchdown pass, cutting Cleveland's lead to 21-16. Pittsburgh attempted a two-point conversion but was unsuccessful. The Steelers continued battling as their defense worked to limit Cleveland's offensive opportunities. Pittsburgh eventually completed its comeback when Rodgers found tight end Pat Freiermuth for a three-yard touchdown with 1:44 remaining in regulation.

Rodgers then scored on a quarterback sneak for the two-point conversion, tying the contest at 24-24. With the game tied and little time remaining, Cleveland needed another late offensive response. Watson delivered by efficiently moving the offense downfield and creating an opportunity for Szmyt to attempt the winning kick. Despite facing pressure from Pittsburgh's defense, Cleveland gained enough yardage to set up the 56-yard attempt. Szmyt's successful field goal gave the Browns a three-point advantage with 10 seconds remaining.

Pittsburgh received one final opportunity, but Rodgers' desperation pass was intercepted by safety Grant Delpit at Cleveland's 18-yard line with one second left, ending the Steelers' hopes of another comeback. Rodgers finished the game completing 22 of 40 passes for 299 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. Wide receiver DK Metcalf was Pittsburgh's leading receiving threat, recording five receptions for 115 yards. Running back Jaylen Warren also contributed to the Steelers' offensive production, rushing for 93 yards on 17 carries. Although Pittsburgh generated several explosive plays, Cleveland's defense consistently disrupted the passing game. The Browns recorded five sacks and 10 quarterback hits against Rodgers, making it difficult for the veteran quarterback to establish a consistent rhythm. Cleveland's defensive pressure proved especially important during passing situations, forcing Pittsburgh to work through difficult down-and-distance scenarios.

The Browns also capitalized on two Rodgers interceptions, including Ward's second-quarter takeaway that helped shift momentum and Delpit's interception that secured the outcome.

Both teams dealt with injuries during the contest.

For Pittsburgh, defensive tackle Derrick Harmon suffered a foot injury during the second quarter and was taken to the locker room. He did not return.

Cornerback Jamel Dean also exited late in the second quarter because of an ankle injury and remained sidelined for the rest of the game.

Cleveland lost defensive tackle Mason Graham to a left knee injury during the opening quarter. Graham did not return.

Defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. suffered a right ankle injury late in the second quarter but returned to action during the third.

The victory gives Cleveland additional momentum as the Browns continue navigating a competitive AFC North division.

Through four games, Watson has demonstrated an ability to guide the offense during critical fourth-quarter situations. His performance against Pittsburgh added another comeback victory to Cleveland's early-season résumé.

The Browns' offense showed its potential during a productive second quarter, while the defense made timely plays to prevent Pittsburgh from taking control late.

For Pittsburgh, the loss highlighted both the team's resilience and areas requiring improvement.

The Steelers erased a 14-point deficit and put themselves in position to potentially win the game, but defensive breakdowns on Cleveland's final possession and difficulties protecting Rodgers ultimately proved costly.

Pittsburgh will look to regroup before returning home to face the Indianapolis Colts on October 11.

Cleveland will travel to face the New York Jets on October 11, looking to build on its 3-1 start and extend its early-season success.

With three consecutive fourth-quarter comeback victories led by Watson, the Browns have established themselves as a team capable of responding when games are on the line. Thursday's narrow victory over their division rival provided another example of Cleveland's ability to execute in the closing moments.