$230 million quarterback set to re-emerge in six-team Browns contest, placing strain on Shedeur Sanders' position

$230 million quarterback set to re-emerge in six-team Browns contest, placing strain on Shedeur Sanders' position

The Cleveland Browns are navigating a complex situation at the quarterback position, with a mix of rookies and a veteran jostling for the role. Deshaun Watson, who signed a fully guaranteed $230 million contract with the team, is actively progressing in his recovery from severe injuries but his return to the Browns' roster remains uncertain and contentious.

Watson suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in 2024 and subsequently ruptured his Achilles tendons twice, once in January and again three months later. These injuries have kept him on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list throughout the 2025 offseason and training camp, with team officials refraining from setting a definitive timeline for his return.

Despite these setbacks, Watson has been diligent in his rehabilitation, frequently sharing workout videos that signal his strong commitment and intent to return earlier than many expected. However, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has confirmed that Watson is not yet cleared for game action and appears to be viewed as unavailable for the 2025 season opener.

In the meantime, the Browns have brought in multiple quarterbacks (Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders) to compete for the starting job. Stefanski recently named Joe Flacco the Week 1 starter against Cincinnati.

The Browns' organization is approaching Watson's situation with cautious optimism but also wariness. Team owner Jimmy Haslam publicly admitted the trade for Watson was a mistake, and the Browns might benefit financially if Watson is unable to play, given the fully guaranteed nature of his contract.

Former NFL quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick predicts that Joe Flacco could start the season but may be replaced around Week 9 bye. Meanwhile, rookies Sanders and Gabriel could be given a chance to play before the end of the season.

The 2026 NFL Draft is predicted to be a strong year for quarterbacks, but Arch Manning's declaration is unlikely. If Watson misses most, if not all, of the 2025 season due to a ruptured Achilles, the Browns can move on from his contract in 2026, but his projected cap hit for the final year of his deal is $80.7 million.

Tyler Huntley has arrived as a free agent in the Cleveland Browns to provide injury cover. As the situation unfolds, the Browns' quarterback depth chart remains independent of Watson for now, leaving the team in a challenging position as they prepare for the 2025 season.

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