Browns Commit to Deshaun Watson as Franchise Quarterback for 2026

The Cleveland Browns are sticking with quarterback Deshaun Watson. This decision was reported by ESPN on Saturday. The team plans to keep Watson on its roster into the 2026 NFL season.

This move provides immediate clarity for a franchise in flux. It signals the team’s belief in Watson’s recovery and future, despite recent struggles.

Navigating Injury and Scrutiny in Cleveland

Watson has not played since October 2024. He suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon that season. The injury occurred during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

He later re-tore the same Achilles. Before the injury, Watson started seven games in 2024. He recorded five touchdown passes and three interceptions.

His time in Cleveland has been complex. He joined the team via a controversial 2022 trade from Houston. The deal involved multiple first-round draft picks.

Watson also served an 11-game suspension in 2022. The suspension followed numerous allegations of sexual misconduct. He was never criminally charged.

Many analysts have criticized the trade’s value. The Browns’ current record is 3-9 this season. They are in last place in the AFC North division.

Long-Term Implications for the Browns’ Future

This roster commitment carries significant financial weight. Watson’s contract is fully guaranteed. Moving on from him would create massive salary cap complications.

The decision directly impacts the team’s draft strategy. Cleveland may now avoid using high picks on a quarterback. Instead, resources can address other roster needs.

For fans, it offers a measure of stability. The quarterback carousel this year featured Joe Flacco and rookies. The team hopes Watson returns to his prior Pro Bowl form.

His health remains the paramount variable. A successful comeback could reshape the AFC North. Another setback would set the franchise back further.

The Browns are banking on Deshaun Watson’s return to elite play. Their future is now inextricably tied to his recovery and performance. This 2026 commitment is a defining gamble for the franchise.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: What is Deshaun Watson’s current injury status?

He is recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon suffered in October 2024. Watson re-tore the Achilles during his initial rehab process. His return timeline for the 2025 season remains unclear.

Q2: Why was Deshaun Watson suspended in 2022?

He served an 11-game suspension following allegations of sexual misconduct by massage therapists. The NFL levied the punishment after its own investigation. Watson settled many civil lawsuits but admitted no wrongdoing.

Q3: How has Cleveland performed without Watson?

The team has used three different starting quarterbacks this season. Their record is currently 3-9, placing them last in their division. Offensive consistency has been a major struggle throughout the year.

Q4: What does this mean for the Browns’ salary cap?

Watson’s contract is fully guaranteed, making a release financially crippling. Keeping him is the most cap-feasible path forward. The structure makes a trade before 2026 highly unlikely.

Q5: Who reported the Browns’ decision on Watson?

ESPN senior NFL insider Adam Schefter first reported the story. He cited league sources regarding the team’s 2026 roster plans. The Browns have not made an official public statement.