Browns Consider Deshaun Watson’s Return Before 2025 Season Ends

The Cleveland Browns have designated quarterback Deshaun Watson for a return to practice, raising speculation about his potential appearance before the end of the current NFL season. Fans and analysts are questioning whether the team might want Watson to play against an opposing defense prior to the conclusion of Week 18.

On Thursday morning, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk highlighted the implications of Watson’s fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract, which could keep him sidelined until the next season. Florio noted that the Browns have “no business reason” to rush Watson back onto the field this season.

Following a second surgery on a torn Achilles tendon in January 2024, Watson’s future playing status remains uncertain. He has not participated in a game since suffering the injury in October 2024. According to Florio, the Browns possess an insurance policy that could reimburse them for up to $44.274 million of Watson’s guaranteed salary, crucial for the team’s long-term financial planning.

Watson has struggled to gain acceptance among a segment of the Cleveland fan base, largely due to past allegations of sexual misconduct. His tenure with the Browns has been controversial, marked by an 11-game suspension during the 2022 season. Some fans reportedly cheered when he was carted off the field after his Achilles injury, illustrating the mixed sentiments surrounding his performance and reputation.

Browns Activate Watson Ahead of Critical Decision

The Browns have 21 days from December 3, 2024, to either elevate Watson to the active roster or place him on the physically unable to perform list for the remainder of the season. Mary Kay Cabot, a Browns beat reporter for the Cleveland Plain Dealer, remarked that the team’s decision to activate Watson was to “reward him for all of his hard work and letting him have an opportunity to go out there and practice.”

Amid these developments, there is also discussion about rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who is expected to start over fellow rookie Dillon Gabriel for the remainder of the season, assuming he remains healthy. The Browns’ record stands at 1-1 during Sanders’ first two starts, and the team is gearing up to face the struggling Tennessee Titans, who hold a record of 1-11, this coming Sunday.

Florio speculated that Watson is unlikely to push for a spot on the roster, as he has presented medical documents indicating his health status, which could lead to a grievance if the team does not acknowledge it. He anticipates that Watson will remain on the Browns’ roster through the completion of his contract in 2026.

Dan Labbe of the Cleveland Plain Dealer echoed this sentiment, suggesting Watson will likely continue with the Browns into the next season. The decision about the team’s quarterback situation beyond their upcoming game remains uncertain, leaving fans eager for clarity as the season progresses.