Deshaun Watson's tenure with the Cleveland Browns has been significantly hampered by injuries since his arrival. The Browns traded for Watson from the Houston Texans prior to the 2022 season, immediately signing him to a massive five-year, $230 million contract, which was the richest deal for a quarterback at that time.

Injury Woes and Roster Instability

Watson’s lack of availability has been a major issue for the organization. He has managed to play in only 19 games for the Browns across his first four seasons with the team.

During this time, Cleveland has relied on numerous quarterbacks, including Joe Flacco and others, attempting to find a stable solution to their long-term quarterback problem. The organization was forced to restructure Watson's substantial contract due to his on-field performance and limited playing time.

Haslam's Optimistic Outlook

Despite the challenges, Browns co-owner Jimmy Haslam remains highly optimistic about Watson's future performance.

Speaking to reporters at the NFL annual meeting on Monday, Haslam highlighted the positive changes ahead. "Deshaun has a great chance, fresh start, offensive-minded coach, who has in his past been able to work with all kinds of different quarterbacks and make them successful," he stated, via ESPN.

Haslam further elaborated on Watson's current status. "So, Deshaun has a great chance to do that now. We talked to him the other day, he said he weighs the he has in several years. He's in great shape, he'll be on April 7 when we start. Let's see what Deshaun can do. We're all excited."

Competition for the Starting Role

The competitive landscape at the quarterback position remains open for the 2026 season. Browns General Manager Andrew Berry previously confirmed that every quarterback currently on the roster will compete for the starting job.

The current depth chart features Watson alongside Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. It remains uncertain whether Cleveland plans to select an additional quarterback during the upcoming draft.

Watson's Previous Performance Metrics

Watson missed the entirety of the 2025 season after suffering a re-rupture of his Achilles tendon during the offseason.

His record as a starter for Cleveland stands at 9-10. In those games, he has accumulated 3,365 passing yards, 19 touchdown passes, 12 interceptions, and has been sacked 70 times.