Quarterback Deshaun Watson is once again at the center of attention — and not for the right reasons. The Cleveland Browns’ star signal-caller suffered what appears to be a severe knee injury during their narrow 21-14 defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 7, and the implications could be monumental for the team.
Watson’s Injury Hits Hard
In the second quarter of Sunday’s game, Watson dropped back to pass but suddenly collapsed to the ground, clutching his knee in agony. It was a stark image, one that sent shockwaves through the Browns’ fanbase and the league. Shortly after, Watson was carted off the field, leaving fans and teammates alike concerned for his future.
Devastating confirmation of that fear came on Monday. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported that Watson suffered a torn Achilles and will miss the entirety of the 2024 season. This news strikes a painful chord, not just for Watson, but for the entire Cleveland organization.
A Troubling Trend for the Browns
This marks the third consecutive year Watson has been sidelined for the entirety of the season due to either suspension or injury since he joined the Browns in 2022. His tenure in Cleveland has been marred by missed opportunities and unmet expectations, prompting the question: has he played his last down for the franchise?
In the past three years, Watson has only suited up for a mere 19 games. When he has been on the field, the results haven’t been encouraging. He’s thrown for just 3,365 yards, with a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 19 to 12, and boasts a record of 9-10 as the starter. For a player whose arrival was celebrated with a king’s ransom, including three first-round picks and a staggering five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract, those numbers are far from impressive.
Future Uncertain for Cleveland
With Watson out for the remainder of this season, the Browns must now strategize without their highest-paid player. Entering Week 8, they will rely on quarterbacks Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Jameis Winston. The duo combined for 149 passing yards, with one touchdown and two interceptions in their limited play against the Bengals. Can they step up and provide a spark? It seems unlikely, which only enhances the likelihood of Cleveland finishing with a higher draft pick in 2025.
Speaking of drafts, Cleveland is currently sitting in a strong position. If the season were to end today, the Browns would hold the No. 3 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft — a golden opportunity to secure a promising quarterback. While this year’s draft class may not measure up to last year’s, the chance to “refresh” and potentially find Watson’s successor could be too appealing to pass up.
Financial Implications and Team Morale
However, moving on from Watson isn’t as simple as it sounds. The financial commitments are substantial. He’s due to make $92 million over the next two seasons ($46 million in each of 2025 and 2026). The team could find itself in a precarious position if they were to cut bait with their star QB, both in terms of finances and team morale.
The Browns’ decision to go “all-in” on Watson has already been scrutinized. His recurring injuries and disappointing performance have prompted many to wonder if Cleveland will finally acknowledge that it may have been a mistake. Will this season be the turning point? Can the franchise find clarity in Watson’s absence over the next eleven weeks?
Looking Ahead: A Critical Week for the Browns
As they navigate this turbulent period, the Browns will face a critical matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, who currently sit at 4-2, in Week 8. The weight of the game will not only impact their standings but will also serve as a litmus test for the future of Cleveland football.
Could the Browns capitalize on this moment to redefine their narrative? With Watson on the sidelines, this may be the opportunity for the team to rally and discover new strengths. But fans will be left wondering: Can they handle the pressure of the moment without their star QB?
As the season unfolds, Cleveland must not only grapple with the implications of Watson’s injury but also address their long-term strategy moving forward. For a team that has invested so heavily in one player, the next steps are crucial. The clock is ticking, and the decisions they make in the coming months could shape the trajectory of this franchise for years to come. Will they embrace change or cling to the hope that Watson can return to form? Only time will tell.
