The Cleveland Browns have spent years searching for a long-term answer at quarterback, and it looks like Deshaun Watson might not be it. According to ESPN’s Dan Graziano, Watson could have played his final game in Cleveland, setting up yet another QB shake-up for the Browns.

Watson’s tenure in Cleveland has been anything but smooth. Injuries limited him to just seven games last season, where he threw for 1,148 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions with a 63.4% completion rate. The former Pro Bowler’s season ended early due to an Achilles injury, casting doubt over his future as the Browns’ starter.

Now, reports suggest Cleveland is eyeing Miami’s Cam Ward as a potential franchise quarterback. If Ward is taken in the top three picks of the draft, it could create an unexpected opportunity for the New England Patriots-one that might just shape their future.

How this helps the Patriots

The Patriots currently hold the No. 4 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and they’ve been linked to defensive standouts like Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter. If the Browns use their pick on a quarterback, it increases the chances that one of these highly sought-after prospects will be available when New England is on the clock.

For a Patriots team looking to rebuild under new head coach Mike Vrabel, securing an elite talent could be a game-changer. While many assume New England is focused on drafting a quarterback, their front office has been rumored to have other positions in mind-especially if the top QB prospects are gone by pick No. 4.

Could Watson land in New England?

There’s another twist in this story. If the Browns officially move on from Watson, he’ll likely hit the market. New England isn’t expected to be a major player in the veteran quarterback market, but under the right circumstances, Watson could be an intriguing option.

One possibility? The Patriots could consider trading backup QB Joe Milton in exchange for Watson, assuming they can negotiate a favorable deal. While Watson isn’t the Patriots’ top target, his presence could provide valuable experience for a young QB like Drake Maye, should the team decide to go that route.

Watson, at 29, still has playoff experience and was once considered an MVP-caliber player. His injury history and massive contract make him a risky bet, but if the price is right, the Patriots might just take a second look.

Draft night just got more interesting

With the Browns seemingly set to draft a quarterback, the ripple effects could shift draft boards across the league. The Patriots, whether they go with a quarterback or another top-tier talent, could find themselves in a better position than expected.

And if Watson’s time in Cleveland is truly over, the question remains: where does he go next? Whatever happens, New England will be watching closely-because their draft plans just got a whole lot more interesting.