Deshaun Watson‘s career is far from over at just 30 years old. In fact, it’s completely normal to see quarterbacks playing at this age, and Tom Brady is just one example that proves you can perform at a high level even much older. So, we’re looking at the return of a player who is very unlikely to leave the Cleveland Browns.
Shedeur Sanders sparks controversy by hinting his performance now ‘depends on trusting teammates’
Watson suffered what might be the worst injury an athlete can face (a ruptured Achilles), but there are other cases of players who have come back from it, so anything is possible.
His situation, however, is unique. It all comes down to his current circumstances, which make an exit extremely difficult given the low level of play he has shown since arriving in Cleveland in March 2022. Given this landscape, the most likely scenario is that he stays with the franchise for at least one more season.
A threat to Shedeur Sanders?
Right now, the starting quarterback job with the Cleveland Browns belongs to Shedeur Sanders, so the moment Watson rejoined practice, he immediately appeared to become a threat. The reality, though, is that his activity will be very limited.
That’s what sources told CBS Sports, clarifying that opening his 21-day window to return to the active 53-man roster does not mean he will see much playing time this season.
“If he is not activated by Week 17, Watson will revert to season-ending injured reserve. By the time the Browns must make the decision, Watson will have fewer than 10 practices under his belt after being away from the field for more than a year,” CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones reported.
Watson will carry an $80 million cap hit next season, and cutting him would trigger a devastating dead-cap figure of around $167 million. Due to multiple restructurings, his contract will continue impacting the salary cap through 2030.
Unless a miraculous trade happens, Watson will remain the Cleveland Browns‘ quarterback in 2026. The franchise may not only want to give Shedeur Sanders a chance to finish out this season, but also protect their expensive starting quarterback and avoid any additional risk before 2026.
