Browns QB Jacoby Brissett preparing to start if Deshaun Watson is suspended

The Cleveland Browns have one quarterback looking for a fresh start elsewhere and a different signal-caller who may be made ineligible to play for some part of the 2022 NFL season. 

Fortunately for them, they also have a proven veteran backup on the roster. 

Shortly after Cleveland completed a controversial trade for Deshaun Watson last month, they signed journeyman Jacoby Brissett amid questions about Watson's availability for the fall. Watson is still facing 22 civil lawsuits regarding allegations of sexual misconduct, and NFL commissioner Roger Goodell suggested in late March the 26-year-old could be suspended by the league even though a pair of grand juries decided not to indict him. 

With 2018 first overall draft pick Baker Mayfield staying far away from the Browns until further notice, Brissett may be penciled in as their QB1 at some point during the 2022 campaign. Per Kevin Patra of the league's website, Brissett told reporters he'll be ready if he finds himself atop the depth chart later this year. 

"I wouldn't be in the position that I am in today if I worried about (knowing if I was going to start or not)," Brissett explained. "I've always prepared myself like a starter. I carry myself like a starter because when those opportunities present themselves, I want to show that I am that."

Brissett made five starts and 11 appearances with the Miami Dolphins this past season and completed 62.7% of his passes for 1,283 yards with five touchdowns and four interceptions.

"I can't predict whatever the case may be with the outside the field stuff, but what I know is true is that you're always one play away," Brissett added during his comments. "And that's what I prepare for, and I obviously prepare like I'm the starter, regardless of the situation."