Browns Break Silence on Deshaun Watson Amid Ongoing QB Battle

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By J.R. DeGroote | Last updated May 11, 2025 7:29 PM ET

Deshaun Watson’s future with the Cleveland Browns remains murky, but his presence continues to loom large as the team evaluates its crowded quarterback room.

Watson first suffered a torn Achilles in October against the Cincinnati Bengals. A reinjury during his recovery in January required a second surgery, sidelining him indefinitely. While the Browns haven’t provided a firm timetable, they’ve indicated he’ll miss a significant portion of the 2025 season.

Still, Watson has stayed active around the team facility, finding ways to contribute despite his injury.

“He’s working really hard. Doing a nice job in his rehab,” head coach Kevin Stefanski said on Saturday. “Doing a great job in the meeting room as well.”

Stefanski added that Watson is now out of his walking boot — an encouraging milestone in his recovery.

The bad news for Watson is even if he does return, he's unlikely to play into the starting quarterback equation in Cleveland, despite his $230 million contract that runs through 2026.

Browns owner Jimmy Haslam dubbed the 2022 trade for Watson a "swing and miss," indicating the franchise is ready to find his replacement.

Over three seasons, Watson has started 19 games, compiling a 9–10 record. He's passed for 3,365 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, 12 interceptions with a passer rating of 80.7.

Veterans Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco are competing alongside rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel for the Browns’ starting quarterback job.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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