Opinion: Deshaun Watson won’t play another snap for the Cleveland Browns

Deshaun Watson’s season-ending Achilles injury, sustained on October 20 during the Browns’ loss to the Bengals, could mark his final snap as a Cleveland Brown. Since joining the team in 2022, Watson has been a polarizing figure both on and off the field. His arrival came with a hefty price tag—a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract—but also with significant baggage, as he was embroiled in off-field legal issues stemming from multiple accusations of sexual misconduct. These controversies not only divided the Cleveland fanbase but also raised questions about the direction of the franchise.

On the field, Watson has struggled to regain the elite form he once displayed in Houston. His performances have been inconsistent, and the Browns’ 1-6 start to the 2024 season fueled frustration among fans and analysts. While Watson’s injuries have played a role in his decline, some have speculated that his poor play and lack of chemistry with the offense contributed significantly to the Browns’ struggles. Rumors have swirled that the Browns’ ownership, particularly the Haslams, pressured head coach Kevin Stefanski to stick with Watson as the starter, despite his subpar performances and injury concerns.

Watson’s latest injury, a ruptured Achilles, ends his season and potentially his time with the Browns. The team now faces a crucial decision regarding their future at quarterback. With Watson’s massive contract still looming over the organization, the Browns may look to move on and rebuild around a different signal-caller in 2025. For many fans, this injury presents an opportunity for a fresh start, and the Browns could use this as a reset point to re-evaluate their quarterback position and overall team strategy moving forward.

Watson’s era in Cleveland may be coming to an end much sooner than anyone anticipated.