Latest rankings show how far Deshaun Watson has fallen among NFL executives

Quarterback Deshaun Watson is an NFL afterthought .

At least coaches, scouts, and executives think so.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler polled NFL personnel experts and decision-makers on how they view the quarterback position around the NFL. Two guys that made the list included the Cinnicinati Begnals' Joe Burrow and Baltimore Ravens' Lamar Jackson. However, not on the list of elite signal callers was Watson. He wasn't even an honorable mention.

It shows how far Watson has fallen during his Cleveland tenure.

Watson was the prize in a blockbuster trade that saw the Browns send away three first-round picks and other capital. He then signed a fully guaranteed deal with Cleveland, changing the contract landscape for quarterbacks in the league.

How has he paid Cleveland back ? Well, he played in 12 games over two seasons due to a suspension in 2022 and a shoulder injury that curtailed the 2023 campaign.

Without him, Cleveland has made the playoffs and the offense has appeared serviceable with several quarterbacks under center.

Heading into the 2024 season, Watson may need the Browns more than the Browns need him.

Cleveland already has Jameis Winston, a serviceable starter if the team finds itself in a pinch. During the 2023 season, Cleveland made the playoffs with Joe Flacco leading the way.

Watson has everything to prove. If he wants to be more than an afterthought, it starts with producing early and often heading into his make-or-break season.

Related: Browns' savvy investment in Dustin Hopkins paying off with long-term contract extension