Former Browns Executive Reflects on Deshaun Watson Trade

Paul DePodesta admits responsibility, but says it was a collective decision

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:30am

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A fractured, geometric painting in muted earth tones, breaking down a football scene into sharp, overlapping planes, conceptually representing the multifaceted nature of the Deshaun Watson trade for the Cleveland Browns.A cubist interpretation of the Deshaun Watson trade saga, deconstructing the complex organizational decision-making process.Denver Today

In a candid press conference, former Cleveland Browns Chief Strategy Officer Paul DePodesta reflected on the team's controversial trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson, acknowledging his role in the decision while emphasizing it was made collaboratively by the organization's leadership. The trade, which cost the Browns multiple first-round picks, was marred by Watson's suspension and injuries, leading to questions about whether it was a strategic blunder or just bad luck.

Why it matters

The Deshaun Watson trade remains a hot-button issue for Browns fans, as the team continues to struggle and search for its long-term quarterback solution. DePodesta's comments shed light on the decision-making process behind the trade, which has had a significant impact on the franchise's trajectory.

The details

During his introductory press conference as the new president of baseball operations for the Colorado Rockies, DePodesta discussed the Deshaun Watson trade, stating that it was an 'organizational decision' made collaboratively by senior leaders. He acknowledged the responsibility of the team's leadership, especially given the Browns' less-than-stellar record during his tenure. DePodesta also humorously admitted to being involved in the team's play-calling.

  • The Deshaun Watson trade occurred in 2022.
  • DePodesta made his comments during a press conference in April 2026.

The players

Paul DePodesta

The former Chief Strategy Officer of the Cleveland Browns, who is now the president of baseball operations for the Colorado Rockies.

Deshaun Watson

The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback who was traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2022, but his tenure was marred by a suspension and injuries.

Jimmy Haslam

The owner of the Cleveland Browns, who took responsibility for the Deshaun Watson trade, calling it a 'big swing-and-miss.'

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What they’re saying

“Those are organizational decisions... done collaboratively.”

— Paul DePodesta, Former Chief Strategy Officer, Cleveland Browns

“The Deshaun Watson trade was a big swing-and-miss.”

— Jimmy Haslam, Owner, Cleveland Browns

What’s next

With the Browns likely to draft a new quarterback in 2026, the impact of the Deshaun Watson trade will continue to be a topic of discussion and debate among fans and analysts.

The takeaway

The Deshaun Watson trade remains a controversial and impactful decision for the Cleveland Browns, with former executive Paul DePodesta acknowledging his role in the process while emphasizing it was a collective decision. The trade's consequences have had a significant influence on the team's trajectory, and the search for a long-term quarterback solution continues to be a priority for the organization.