The Cleveland Browns face serious questions about their future under center as Deshaun Watson’s injury troubles pile up. Watson, who suffered an Achilles injury in Oct. 2024 and a setback in Jan. 2025, remains uncertain for the 2025 NFL season. The setback has given an avenue to scrutinize the Browns’ $230 million fully guaranteed commitment to Watson, a deal now being viewed as one of the most significant risks in the NFL.
Browns Corner Denzel Ward Gives Verdict on Deshaun Watson’s Situation
Watson and his deal aside, the Browns struggled in 2024, posting a 3-14 record. Browns cornerback Denzel Ward openly suggested the team should consider their options at quarterback. Ward said to TMZ Sports, “I think we need a quarterback for real. The NFL starts with the quarterback position. Once you get that solidified, the rest of the team falls into place. I don’t think we’re too far off, we just need to solidify that position, though.”
Denzel Ward told TMZ that the Browns need a quarterback. pic.twitter.com/RmMsXdYIeW
— Nick Pedone (@NickPedone12) January 16, 2025
Given Watson’s subpar performances in 2024 and uncertain availability for 2025, Ward’s statement holds value. Statistically, Watson’s 2024 season was a disaster. He ranked 39th in third-down conversion rate (19.7%) and had a regular season QB+ rating of 44.3, according to PFN’s QB+ metric, placing him in the bottom five across almost every major metric in PFN’s QB rankings.
Watson’s recovery timeline was already tight before his recent setback. There’s a growing belief in Cleveland that the front office could explore alternatives, including drafting a quarterback or targeting veteran options like Kirk Cousins or Sam Darnold.
From a financial point of view, Watson’s contract remains a massive obstacle. His $72.9 million cap hit in 2025 leaves the Browns with few easy options for relief. Restructuring his deal could save $35.8 million, but it would push massive dead money into future seasons, complicating long-term planning. The Browns hold the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and could target a young quarterback like Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward.
The team’s struggles in 2024 were evident, with three quarterbacks cycling through and a league-low Offense+ grade of 56.3, according to PFN’s Offense+ metric. Watson’s continued absence and lack of production have fans yearning for a rebuild. While the Browns’ front office has hesitated to make drastic moves, Ward’s comments may signal a growing sentiment within the organization to rethink their approach at quarterback.
As the offseason begins for head coach Kevin Stefanski, the Browns HC would want to solve the quarterback situation head-on. The front office has the routes and means to address the issue — whether through the draft, trades, or free agency — but it must act decisively to avoid another season of uncertainty.