The Cleveland Browns took a bold step by trading for former Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson in 2022, handing him a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract.
Watson, who was once considered one of the top quarterbacks in Texas, was expected to become the cornerstone of Cleveland’s franchise. However, his tenure with the Browns has been overshadowed by persistent challenges on and off the field.
Among the controversies was a civil lawsuit filed in October 2020, accusing Watson of sexual assault and battery. Watson has consistently denied the allegations. Adding to these issues, his career has been hindered by injuries.
After missing the last eight games of the 2023 season due to shoulder surgery, Watson faced another setback in October 2024 when he tore his Achilles, ruling him out for the remainder of the season.
As he prepared for the 2025 season, he suffered another Achilles rupture, requiring a second surgery. Reports suggest that Watson may need at least seven months of recovery, leaving his availability for the next season uncertain.
Calls for Cleveland to Part Ways
After enduring yet another unsuccessful season, NFL legend Shannon Sharpe voiced his opinion on the situation, urging the Browns to move on from Watson.
Speaking on his ‘Nightcap’ podcast, Sharpe expressed concern over Watson’s physical condition, saying, “It’s not working, and it’s too late to turn back now.
The damage to his body is just too much. If you piece it together, he’s barely played an entire season over the last four years.” Sharpe acknowledged Watson’s talent but doubted he could regain his prime form, suggesting Cleveland and Watson part ways.
Sharpe’s co-host, Chad Johnson, defended Watson, emphasizing his age and past achievements. While Sharpe doesn’t believe Watson should retire from football entirely, he asserted that his time in Cleveland has likely come to an end. “As much as I wanted to see it, he’s never going to be what he was in Houston,” Sharpe concluded.
Off-Field Challenges and Mixed Results
Watson’s off-field troubles have also been a major focus. More than 20 women accused him of sexual misconduct and harassment before his trade to Cleveland.
While Watson settled 20 of the claims out of court and denied any wrongdoing, he was suspended for the first 11 games of the 2022 season and fined $5 million.
His turbulent 2024 included a death threat, as reported by Jason Lloyd of The Athletic. According to Lloyd, Watson’s agent received a threatening email in June, but the investigation yielded no suspects.
Despite being a three-time Pro Bowler and leading the league in passing yards in 2020, Watson’s time with the Browns has been marred by setbacks.
Over three seasons, he has appeared in just 19 games, recording 3,365 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.
His 2024 campaign ended with 1,148 passing yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. If Cleveland decides to part ways with Watson, they are likely to explore numerous options to replace him.
