The Deshaun Watson trade hasn’t worked out for the Cleveland Browns, that’s for sure. And yet, the franchise isn’t ready to completely abandon ship.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Browns have agreed to a contract restructure with Watson. It won’t change the fact that he’s due $92 million over the next two seasons, but it will make the team’s salary cap situation much easier to manage following the 2026 season. By making this move, Cleveland has basically revealed its plan for the 2025 season. Whether fans like it or not, Watson will most likely be back.
Even though Watson is expected to be on the Browns next season, Rapoport said the team could bring in some competition at quarterback.
“The Browns have not publicly stated their plans for Watson, and sources also say it would make sense to bring in another QB — whether that’s a younger player, current backup Jameis Winston, or another veteran to add competition to the position,” Rapoport said. “While 2024 was a down year for Watson prior to his injury, the team consistently pointed to an offense as a whole that needed to improve.”
Watson’s 2024 season was cut short due to a torn Achilles. He finished the year with 1,148 passing yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions. Since joining the Browns in 2022, he has just 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
The Browns started Jameis Winston at quarterback after losing Watson to injury this year. It wasn’t long before the No. 1 pick was then replaced by Dorian Thompson-Robinson.
If the Browns want to add more experience and production to their quarterback room in the offseason, they may want to keep a close eye on the Atlanta Falcons. There’s a chance they cut Kirk Cousins from their roster. In the event that happens, he’d be a strong fit in Cleveland due to his experience in Kevin Stefanski’s offense.
