Browns' Deshaun Watson (shoulder) throwing in OTAs

What It Means

Watson's 2024 season came to an early end after the quarterback suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in Week 10. He had previously missed three additional games with other injuries, bringing his total games played since joining the Browns 2 seasons ago up to 12, between his injuries and his 2022 suspension. It looks like his shoulder injury is behind him now, as he has seemingly been a full participant in the team's OTA practices.

When he has suited up for Cleveland, Watson has been among the worst quarterbacks in the NFL. He's thrown just 14 touchdowns to 9 interceptions in that time while averaging 5.03 adjusted net yards per attempt -- a mark that would have ranked 28th in the league last year behind Steelers starter Kenny Pickett.

Given the success quarterbacks like Jacoby Brissett and Joe Flacco have found in an identical situation, it's fair to question how much longer the Browns will tolerate Watson's poor play. The team signed Jameis Winston as their QB2 this offseason, which could put pressure on Watson if he starts the season slowly.