When Deshaun Watson landed in Cleveland, the fans were brimming with hope of a franchise quarterback that would take them to the promised land. Those days are far gone now.
Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry recently informed that Watson has suffered a “setback” in his rehabilitation from Achilles injury. Fans, however, believe this is a loophole that the Browns are exploiting to get rid of Watson.
Browns Fans Believe Deshaun Watson’s Days Are Over in Cleveland
The quarterback suffered an Achilles injury during the Week 7 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. It was expected that he would return in the next season. However, with this setback, the timeline for his return has become murkier.
In 2022, Watson signed a massive $230 million all-guaranteed deal with the Browns. This deal was restructured earlier this year. Per OTC, this restructure allows the Browns financial relief to the tune of $44.3 million.
“The Browns have $44.3M of Watson’s 2025 salary insured for injury so there is some major financial relief available if he can not play due to the Achilles injury suffered this year,” he tweeted.
The #Browns have $44.3M of Watson's 2025 salary insured for injury so there is some major financial relief available if he can not play due to the Achilles injury suffered this year.
— Jason_OTC (@Jason_OTC) January 6, 2025
Fans were pleased to find this insurance clause, potentially saving their cap space to recruit another QB next season. They didn’t hesitate to show off their happiness as well. “Smart of them to talk Watson into this,” replied one fan.
“Browns are sly crooks lol… they always find a loop hole Lmao,” tweeted one NFL fan.
Browns are sly crooks lol… they always find a loop hole Lmao https://t.co/TEV9glQw4I
— Honcho Da Cope Dealer (@Honcho_WhoDey) January 6, 2025
“Yeah, he’s not playing another damn snap for this team if this is true. The Browns have hit the eject button,” added a fan.
“Browns GM Andrew Berry when Watson starts off the season on the PUP list,” responded a fan with a GIF.
Browns GM Andrew Berry when Watson starts off the season on the PUP list
pic.twitter.com/JbGDEDWiLu— Mac🦬 (@tha_buffalo) January 6, 2025
“It’s been great 4. See ya never again. Enjoy that PUP in 2025,” another fan added.
“Listen, I don’t wish injury on anyone, never have, never will. But man, getting 44 mil back in cap relief? Thats a boom,” tweeted another fan.
Listen, I don’t wish injury on anyone, never have, never will. But man, getting 44 mil back in cap relief? Thats a boom #DawgPound https://t.co/jb91NYmTcL pic.twitter.com/jV8WqUQIWu
— Bill Sparks (@SparkScouting) January 6, 2025
Watson’s Possible Exit Clears the Way for Another QB
In trading for Watson from the Houston Texans, the Browns had given up their first-round picks in 2022, 2023, and 2024. Now, in 2025, they have the No. 2 overall pick and are in place to draft a QB that could lead their franchise for several years.
The Tennessee Titans have the first pick and could target 2024 Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter or their favorite QB in the class. Even if they go for a QB, that will still leave Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward on the board.
The Browns have enough time on their hands to evaluate both these picks and find the one that perfectly fits their structure.