Deshaun Watson’s Journey with the Cleveland Browns
Deshaun Watson’s time with the Cleveland Browns has certainly been memorable, though perhaps not in the way everyone had hoped. The Browns traded for Watson from the Houston Texans ahead of the 2022 season, giving him a five-year contract worth $230 million—this was the largest contract ever awarded to a quarterback at that point. Unfortunately, due to injuries and limited playing time, the team found it necessary to make adjustments to his deal.
So far, Watson has played in just 19 games over four seasons with the Browns. In the meantime, the organization has released several quarterbacks, like Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders, while searching for reliable options.
Despite these challenges, Browns co-owner Jimmy Haslam remains hopeful about Watson’s future. He mentioned in a recent statement that Watson has a significant opportunity ahead. “Deshaun has a great chance, with a fresh start and a coach who is offensive-minded and has worked well with various quarterbacks,” Haslam said during the NFL’s annual meeting.
Haslam added that he had spoken with Watson recently, who noted he is at the lightest weight he has been in years and feels good. Watson is set to be in Cleveland for the start of the offseason training program, and there’s a sense of anticipation regarding what he can demonstrate this time around.
Browns general manager Andrew Berry has made it clear that all quarterbacks on the roster will compete for the starting position. Currently, Watson is joined by Sanders and Gabriel, though it’s uncertain if the Browns will look to draft another quarterback.
It’s worth noting that Watson faced a setback last offseason when he re-ruptured his Achilles tendon, leading to him missing the whole 2025 season.
In his time with Cleveland, Watson holds a record of 9 wins and 10 losses as a starter, with 3,365 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and a staggering 70 sacks. There’s a mix of hope and uncertainty about his future, but for now, the focus is on the upcoming season.
