The Cleveland Browns are facing a pivotal moment as they look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, especially following some unsettling injury news regarding their star quarterback, Deshaun Watson. After a dismal 3-14 season, the Browns are grappling with the implications of Watson’s torn Achilles tendon, which he sustained during an October game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Watson’s Injury and Recovery Challenges
Watson’s injury has cast a shadow over the Browns’ future plans. The quarterback, who was once seen as the franchise’s cornerstone, has struggled to find his footing since joining the team. In just 19 starts since the Browns traded three first-round picks and awarded him a fully guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022, Watson’s performance has been underwhelming. He threw for only five touchdowns against a staggering 33 sacks, leading the NFL in interceptions with 23 during the season.
On Monday, Browns general manager Andrew Berry addressed the media, revealing that Watson’s recovery has not gone as smoothly as hoped. The team discovered setbacks during Watson’s end-of-season physical, raising concerns about his 2025 status. Berry noted that Watson had reported discomfort in his Achilles, prompting further evaluation. As it stands, the timeline for Watson’s return remains uncertain, and the possibility of needing another surgery looms large.
Future Draft Plans in Jeopardy
The implications of Watson’s injury extend beyond just his health; they could significantly alter the Browns’ draft strategy. With the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming draft, the team may be compelled to consider selecting a quarterback, depending on the outcome of Watson’s recovery. This could lead Cleveland to explore options like Shedeur Sanders from Colorado or Cam Ward from Miami, both of whom have shown promise and could be potential franchise quarterbacks.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Watson, Berry insisted that the team’s approach to the quarterback position would not drastically change. However, he acknowledged that the signal-caller room would look different next year. With Watson’s hefty contract still on the books—$46 million owed in each of the next two seasons—the Browns must navigate their options carefully.
Assessing the Quarterback Room
The Browns’ quarterback situation is precarious. Aside from Watson, the only other signal-caller under contract for the 2025 season is Dorian Thompson-Robinson, a fifth-round pick from 2023 who struggled in his two starts this past season. The team also faces decisions regarding unrestricted free agent Jameis Winston, who had a mixed performance with 12 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in seven starts, and restricted free agent Bailey Zappe.
Berry emphasized the need for change, stating, “That room, it will look different next year.” The Browns’ front office is aware that they must find a solution to their quarterback woes, especially after a season that saw them miss the playoffs following a previous postseason appearance.
Looking Back at Watson’s Tenure
Watson’s time with the Browns has been marred by injuries and inconsistent play. After missing the final eight games of the previous season due to shoulder surgery, his 2024 season was expected to be a comeback year. Instead, the torn Achilles has thrown a wrench into those plans. The Browns were 1-6 under Watson before his injury, a disappointing record that has left fans and analysts questioning the team’s direction.
Berry candidly remarked, “To date, the trade hasn’t gone how we anticipated,” reflecting the frustration that has permeated the organization. The Browns are at a crossroads, needing to make critical decisions that will shape their future.
What Lies Ahead for the Browns?
As the Browns prepare for the offseason, they must weigh their options carefully. The draft presents an opportunity to reshape the roster, but with Watson’s future uncertain, the stakes are higher than ever. Will they gamble on a young quarterback, or will they seek to bolster their roster through free agency?
The upcoming months will be crucial for the Browns. They need to assess Watson’s health, evaluate their current roster, and formulate a plan that can lead them back to contention. The NFL landscape is ever-changing, and the decisions made in the next few weeks could define the franchise for years to come.
In summary, the Cleveland Browns are navigating a challenging period as they confront the ramifications of Deshaun Watson’s injury. With a critical draft on the horizon and a pressing need for change, the team’s leadership must act decisively to ensure a brighter future. The path ahead may be fraught with uncertainty, but the potential for growth and renewal remains. Will the Browns seize this opportunity to turn their fortunes around? Only time will tell.
