In a stunning turn of events, the Cleveland Browns’ season took a devastating blow when starting quarterback Deshaun Watson suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The injury, confirmed by an MRI on Monday, not only ends Watson’s season but also casts doubt on the Browns’ plans at the quarterback position for the foreseeable future.
A Franchise-Altering Injury
Watson’s injury occurred late in the first half when he attempted to carry out a run play. Before crossing the line of scrimmage, he crumpled to the ground, grabbing his lower right leg in pain. The severity of the injury was immediately apparent as the entire Browns team rushed to his side, and a cart was brought out to transport him to the locker room.
This marks the second consecutive year that Cleveland has lost Watson to a season-ending injury, following a shoulder injury in Week 10 of the 2023 season. The quarterback’s tenure with the Browns, which began with a blockbuster trade and a fully guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022, has been marred by controversy, suspension, and now, repeated injuries.
Uncertainty Looms Over Browns’ QB Position
Watson’s injury leaves the Browns with limited options at quarterback for the remainder of the 2024 season. Backup Dorian Thompson-Robinson, a 2023 fifth-round pick, took over following Watson’s exit but struggled, completing just 11 of 24 passes for 82 yards and two interceptions. Veteran Jameis Winston, the team’s emergency quarterback, briefly entered the game late in the fourth quarter.
Beyond this season, Watson’s massive contract presents a significant challenge for the Browns. His cap hits of $72.9 million in each of the next two seasons are among the highest in the NFL, despite his lackluster performance since joining the team. If the Browns were to part ways with Watson, they would face dead cap hits of $172 million and $99 million in 2025 and 2026, respectively.
“Any of our guys that you lose, you’re disappointed because you know how much this means to them and how hard they work. It’s tough.”
– Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski
Draft Picks Offer Potential Solutions
With limited cap space expected in 2025, the Browns’ best opportunity to address the quarterback position may come through the draft. The team currently holds all of its future first-round picks, having completed the trade for Watson. At 1-6, Cleveland is on track to secure a top selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, potentially putting them in position to select one of the top quarterback prospects.
As the Browns navigate the aftermath of Watson’s devastating injury, they face difficult decisions about the direction of the franchise. The team’s “all-in” approach to acquiring Watson has thus far failed to yield the desired results, leaving them in a precarious position both on and off the field. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining the Browns’ path forward at the quarterback position and beyond.
