Deshaun Watson Injury Update: Will the $230 Million QB Return to Save the Browns’ Season?

The Deshaun Watson injury update Browns QB status remains one of the most pressing questions in Cleveland. The $230 million quarterback is still recovering from a second Achilles surgery and has yet to be cleared for practice. With the Browns struggling at 1-4, the organization faces a critical decision on whether to activate Watson this season.

The team’s latest move — trading veteran Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals and promoting rookie Dillon Gabriel to starter — has fueled speculation about Watson’s future. Fans are now asking if the front office is preparing for a post-Watson era or quietly paving the way for his return.

Where Deshaun Watson’s Recovery Stands Right Now

Watson tore his right Achilles in October 2024, ending his season early. His recovery hit another major setback in January 2025 when he suffered a re-rupture of the same Achilles, forcing him to undergo a second surgery. Nine months later, the Browns have yet to open his practice window, and head coach Kevin Stefanski continues to describe his rehab as “progressing but cautious.”

Stefanski told reporters Watson is out of his walking boot and fully involved in meetings, but he stopped short of giving any timetable for practice or game action. Under NFL rules, once a player’s practice window opens from the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, the team has 21 days to activate him or shut him down for the year. That window has not opened yet.

Meanwhile, the Browns’ quarterback room has shifted dramatically. Rookie Dillon Gabriel was announced as the starter after the Flacco trade, with first-year passer Shedeur Sanders now elevated to the backup spot. Bailey Zappe remains on the practice squad. These moves strongly suggest the team is preparing for the possibility Watson may not return this season.

Watson’s contract continues to loom large over the franchise. His fully guaranteed $230 million deal means the Browns have little financial flexibility, and his 2026 salary is already locked in. General manager Andrew Berry faces pressure to salvage something from a gamble that has yet to pay off.

How the Decision Impacts the Browns’ Season and Future

The Browns’ front office is navigating a delicate balance between giving Watson another shot and developing its young quarterbacks. Starting Gabriel allows the team to evaluate a potential long-term option while Watson rehabs. If Watson were to return late in the season, it could disrupt Gabriel’s development but might also serve as a showcase for a possible future trade.

Fan reaction remains split. Many in Cleveland have grown frustrated with Watson’s injuries and inconsistent play since his blockbuster trade and suspension. In 19 starts since joining the Browns, he has thrown just 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions — far from the elite production expected when the team traded three first-round picks for him in 2022.

Owner Jimmy Haslam has admitted the Watson trade was a “big swing and a miss,” but financial realities could still push the team to play him if he becomes healthy. The Browns’ poor start this season might make it more likely they test him on the field to gauge trade value or buy time while planning for a reset.

For now, the Deshaun Watson injury update Browns QB status remains uncertain. The Browns continue to monitor his rehab closely, but no timeline exists for a return — and every passing week makes a comeback less likely.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Deshaun Watson return in 2025?

It’s still unknown. His practice window hasn’t opened, and coaches remain cautious about rushing him back after a second Achilles surgery.

Q2: Why did the Browns trade Joe Flacco?

The move created space for rookie QBs Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders to develop and hinted at a possible shift away from Watson.

Q3: What is the impact of Watson’s contract?

Watson’s $230 million deal is fully guaranteed, including his 2026 salary, making it difficult for the Browns to move on financially.

Q4: When can the Browns activate Watson?

Once the team opens his PUP practice window, they have 21 days to activate him. That step has not been taken yet.

Q5: Who is starting at QB for Cleveland now?

Dillon Gabriel is the current starter, with Shedeur Sanders as backup. Bailey Zappe remains on the practice squad.