The Cleveland Browns appear to have miscalculated when they traded for Deshaun Watson and handed him a fully guaranteed contract, but it seems they are prepared to give him one more season to prove his value.
Albert Breer of *Sports Illustrated* wrote on Monday that Watson is likely to remain with the Browns in 2025. However, Breer noted that the team plans to take a more serious approach to its quarterback situation this offseason, possibly by adding stronger competition through the draft or veteran signings.
“Until now, the Browns have built their quarterback room to support Watson,” Breer explained. “This year, they’ll aim to add competition rather than just a stopgap backup.”
Watson, who signed a fully guaranteed $230 million deal before the 2022 season, is set to earn $46 million annually over the next two seasons, with massive cap hits of nearly $73 million each year.
The 29-year-old quarterback suffered a torn Achilles in Week 7 and faces a lengthy recovery. Before the injury, his performance had been underwhelming, with 1,148 passing yards, 5 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions while leading the team to a 1-5 record. His inconsistent play aligns with his overall tenure in Cleveland, where he has appeared in just 19 games across three seasons.
Though the Browns are financially tied to Watson, some speculate that his combination of poor performance, a serious injury, and off-field controversies might eventually lead the team to cut ties. Even if Watson stays, it appears the Browns have come to terms with the reality that he is unlikely to become the franchise quarterback they had hoped for.
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