Deshaun Watson’s Setback Raises Questions for the Browns’ Future

Deshaun Watson’s journey toward recovery from a torn Achilles tendon has hit a roadblock. Andrew Berry, the Cleveland Browns’ general manager, revealed that Watson experienced a setback during his rehab process, which will extend his recovery timeline. This news adds another layer of uncertainty to Watson’s already challenging situation. The setback was discovered during an end-of-season physical, with Watson reporting discomfort. While it’s too early to determine whether another surgery will be necessary, the Browns will monitor his progress closely in the coming weeks.

The Impact on the Browns’ Quarterback Situation

The Browns are no strangers to challenges at the quarterback position, and Watson’s setback only amplifies the pressure on the team to address this critical role. With Watson’s availability now even more uncertain, the Browns are expected to explore options in free agency to bolster their quarterback room. Cleveland’s current situation under center is precarious, with only Dorian Thompson-Robinson under contract for the 2025 season. Thompson-Robinson, a fifth-round pick from the 2023 draft, struggled in his two starts this year. Jameis Winston, who started seven games before being benched, is now an unrestricted free agent, and Bailey Zappe, who became the 40th quarterback to start for the Browns since 1999, is a restricted free agent. This level of instability at the quarterback position is unsustainable for a team aiming to compete in the NFL.

The Road Ahead for Deshaun Watson

Watson’s career with the Browns has been marred by injuries and underperformance since his arrival in 2022. The 29-year-old quarterback tore his right Achilles tendon on October 20, marking the second consecutive year his season has ended prematurely due to injury. In 2023, Watson missed the final eight games after undergoing surgery on his throwing shoulder. Since signing a fully guaranteed $230 million contract before the 2022 season, Watson has started just 19 games for the Browns. His performance in those games has been underwhelming, including a 1-6 record in games he started in 2024 and the lowest QBR in the NFL before his injury in Week 7. The Browns’ decision to trade three first-round picks for Watson now looks increasingly questionable, as the team has yet to see a return on its significant investment.

Financial Implications of Watson’s Contract

The financial commitment to Watson remains a significant burden for the Browns. The team still owes him $46 million in each of the next two seasons, with cap hits of $72.9 million in 2025 and 2026—currently the second-highest in the NFL. In an effort to manage Watson’s cap hit, the Browns and Watson agreed to restructure his contract in late December, adding two void years. This move allows the team to spread out his dead salary cap into 2030, providing some financial relief in the short term. However, the long-term implications of this contract remain a challenge for the Browns, who are now navigating the complexities of a deal that has not yet yielded the anticipated results.

Coaching Changes and Staff Stability

In addition to the challenges on the field, the Browns have also made changes to their coaching staff. Offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and offensive line coach Andy Dickerson were fired after just one season with the team. These moves are likely an attempt to address the offensive struggles that plagued the Browns throughout the 2024 season. Despite these changes, head coach Kevin Stefanski indicated that no other major staff changes are anticipated, signaling a level of stability within the organization. The Browns are clearly looking to regroup and refocus heading into the 2025 season, with the hope that a new offensive philosophy will help unlock the potential of their roster.

The Browns’ Path Forward: No Rebuild, But Plenty of Questions

Despite a dismal 3-14 finish—the franchise’s worst record since the 2017 season—Andrew Berry has made it clear that the Browns do not plan to enter a full-scale rebuild this offseason. Berry expressed confidence in the team’s core players, including defensive end Myles Garrett, who has been vocal about his desire to avoid a rebuild. Garrett, one of the few bright spots for the Browns in 2024, is expected to remain with the team and retire as a Brown. The Browns’ approach this offseason will be to fix and remedy the inconsistencies that have plagued the team, particularly at the quarterback position. Berry’s comments suggest a focus on adding stability and performance at key positions, with the hope of finally achieving the consistency that has eluded the franchise in recent years.

In summary, the Browns face a critical offseason, with the quarterback position at the heart of their challenges. Watson’s injury and uncertain future, combined with the team’s financial commitments and coaching changes, create a complex landscape for Andrew Berry and his staff to navigate. While the Browns are not embarking on a rebuild, the pressure to address their quarterback situation and improve overall performance is paramount if the team hopes to compete in the NFL in 2025 and beyond.