The Cleveland Browns are heading into the NFL offseason facing uncertainty at quarterback despite Deshaun Watson’s significant contract. Watson’s tenure with the team has fallen short of expectations, and his recovery from Achilles surgery, which sidelined him in October, is expected to take about nine months, potentially making him available by training camp, according to Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot.
While ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler and Daniel Oyefusi report that Watson is expected to remain with the Browns in 2025, the team is exploring other veteran quarterback options. Among the possibilities is Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins, who might be available due to changes in Atlanta’s roster plans. A Browns team source noted that Watson’s injury history is a factor in planning for next season and that maintaining the current quarterback setup is unlikely.
Cousins, a four-time Pro Bowler, signed a four-year, $180 million deal with Atlanta that runs through 2027. However, after being benched in favor of rookie Michael Penix Jr., Cousins is expected to be released this offseason. If released, the Browns might consider signing him on a more favorable contract.
The potential connection between Cousins and Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski, who worked with him during his time with the Minnesota Vikings, adds to the speculation. Under Stefanski’s guidance in 2019, Cousins achieved one of his best seasons, posting a 69.1% completion rate, 26 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. Atlanta owes Cousins $27.5 million in guarantees, and cutting him before a $10 million roster bonus in March could make him an affordable option for Cleveland.
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