Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson faces a pivotal juncture. After a challenging transition to Cleveland that included significant shoulder surgery and a suspension-marred season, Watson finds himself at a crossroads.
Veteran sports columnist Terry Pluto of the Cleveland Plain Dealer recently highlighted a potential path forward for Watson: taking a leaf out of Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ playbook.
Mahomes, known for his dynamic play and agility, has successfully navigated the physical demands of the league, missing only four games over six seasons. Pluto suggests that Watson, whose style includes considerable mobility, could benefit immensely from studying Mahomes’ techniques.
“Watson has to stay on the field, and that means avoiding contact as much as possible,” Pluto advised, emphasizing the importance of Watson learning from Mahomes’ approach to maintain his health and effectiveness throughout the season.
Kevin Stefanski’s Confidence and Deshaun Watson’s Contractual Bindings
Amidst recovery from an “uncommon shoulder” procedure, Watson remains a central figure in the Browns’ strategy. Head coach Kevin Stefanski underscored his belief in Watson’s continued mobility post-recovery. This resilience is crucial for Watson, especially considering the hefty investment Cleveland made when they signed him to a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract in March 2022.
Saudi Arabia’s latest sports ambassador: Deshaun Watson.
The Browns QB visited the country to promote American football and meet with Saudi royalty.
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— Front Office Sports (@FOS) April 25, 2024
This contract came on the heels of Watson’s tumultuous exit from the Houston Texans and a suspension related to allegations of sexual misconduct, which sidelined him for the initial 11 games of his debut season with the Browns. Despite these setbacks, Watson’s prior accolades, including three consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2018 to 2020, attest to his high ceiling of performance.
Cleveland Browns Offseason Moves
The Browns’ decision to replace offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt with Ken Dorsey this offseason could be a game-changer for Watson. Dorsey’s track record with dual-threat quarterbacks suggests a strategic pivot that could harness Watson’s capabilities more effectively.
Pluto stresses the necessity for the Browns’ coaching staff to assist Watson in learning from past mistakes, particularly highlighting instances from last season where Watson could have avoided contact.
“The Browns should put together a video of Watson putting himself (and his team) at risk by running the ball into defenders,” Pluto remarked, pointing out opportunities where Watson could have slid or thrown the ball away to evade tackles and sacks.
Deshaun Watson’s Future with the Cleveland Browns
As the 2024 season approaches, the stakes for Watson couldn’t be higher. Speculation abounds that Cleveland might reassess Watson’s role if he fails to lead the team beyond the wild-card round of the playoffs. Meanwhile, betting odds from DraftKings Sportsbook underscore the anticipation and pressure, with the Browns listed at +600 to clinch the AFC North title, trailing behind division rivals Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals.
The upcoming season not only holds the key to Watson’s redemption arc but also poses a significant test of his adaptability and durability. By potentially modeling his game after Patrick Mahomes, Watson has a blueprint for success that could redefine his career trajectory and solidify his position as a cornerstone of the Browns’ franchise.
