Deshaun Watson, quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, faced criticism after a career-worst performance in a 33-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1. Watson posted an 8.3 QBR and averaged just 2.6 air yards per attempt, both career lows. He struggled with indecision and erratic passes and was sacked six times as his offensive line faltered. Despite the tough outing, Watson confidently stated, “I’ll always be Deshaun Watson,” signaling his belief in himself remained intact.
Since the Browns acquired Watson in 2022 for three first-round picks and a $230 million guaranteed contract, he has failed to live up to the Pro Bowl expectations that once defined his career in Houston. Injuries and inconsistency have plagued his time in Cleveland, where the team has regressed following Watson’s return as a starter. Nine months after Joe Flacco led the Browns to the playoffs during Watson’s injury absence, Cleveland’s struggles continue with Watson at the helm.
Watson’s path to becoming the Browns’ starter has been tumultuous. He began by serving an 11-game suspension related to allegations of sexual misconduct, followed by injuries that further interrupted his playing time. Since joining Cleveland, Watson has shown only flashes of his former self, with more frustrating performances than game-changing moments.
In a recent 34-13 loss to the Washington Commanders, Watson’s struggles continued as he failed to pass for 200 yards for the fifth consecutive game. Protection issues and penalties also contributed to the Browns’ offensive woes. Despite growing concerns, head coach Kevin Stefanski has ruled out a quarterback change, expressing confidence in Watson and the team’s ability to resolve their issues.
Cleveland’s record stands at 9-8 in games Watson has started, but his individual performance has fallen short compared to his time with the Houston Texans, where he was a three-time Pro Bowler. His current QBR ranks near the bottom of the league, a stark contrast to his previous elite play. The Browns’ 1-4 start has intensified the need for Watson to rediscover the form that once made him a top quarterback.
Tensions have surfaced within the team. During a Week 4 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, Watson was seen visibly frustrated with right tackle Dawand Jones after a missed block led to pressure. While Watson downplayed the incident, it reflected a broader struggle within Cleveland’s offense, which ranks among the worst in the league. The Browns have failed to surpass 300 total yards or score more than 20 points in a game this season.
In an effort to adapt, Cleveland made changes to its offensive staff during the offseason, bringing in Ken Dorsey as offensive coordinator to design a scheme better suited to Watson’s skill set. However, through five games, the results have been disappointing, with Cleveland’s offense converting just 18% of third downs. This marks one of the worst offensive starts by any NFL team in recent history.
Injuries have further complicated the Browns’ situation, with key players like the offensive line and tight end David Njoku missing time. These absences have forced the team to make adjustments that have disrupted their rhythm. Watson’s tendency to hold onto the ball for too long, leading to a league-high 26 sacks, has also contributed to the team’s offensive struggles.
Despite Watson’s underwhelming performance, the Browns restructured his contract before the 2024 season to create cap space. This financial move, however, makes it difficult for Cleveland to part ways with him, as releasing Watson would result in massive dead cap hits in future seasons. The decision to invest in Watson has become increasingly risky as his poor play continues.
Although Watson has shown occasional glimpses of his former skill, such as in a close loss to the Raiders, the Browns have yet to find consistency. His leadership and decision-making are under heavy scrutiny, with the team still searching for its offensive identity as the season progresses. Watson acknowledges the need for improvement and insists that the Browns must “catch a rhythm” soon before the season slips away.
