Browns Open to Giving QB Deshaun Watson Another Chance

Owner Jimmy Haslam believes Watson has a 'fresh start' under new coach Todd Monken

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:43pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football game or match, with the players and field broken down into abstract shapes and planes of muted colors, capturing the uncertainty and complexity of the Browns' quarterback situation.A cubist interpretation of the ongoing quarterback competition in Cleveland, where the Browns hope to see Deshaun Watson recapture his former elite form.Cleveland Today

Despite Deshaun Watson's struggles and injuries since joining the Cleveland Browns in 2022, owner Jimmy Haslam says the team is open to giving the embattled quarterback another chance to reclaim his former level of play under new head coach Todd Monken. Haslam acknowledged Watson's effort and toughness, and believes the addition of an offensive-minded coach could help him succeed.

Why it matters

The Browns' decision to stick with Watson is a surprising move, as many expected the team to move on from the quarterback after a tumultuous tenure marked by a league suspension, below-average performance, and multiple season-ending injuries. Haslam's comments suggest the Browns are willing to give Watson one more opportunity, despite the backlash the team has faced from fans over the trade and contract.

The details

Deshaun Watson joined the Browns in 2022 on a fully guaranteed $230 million contract, but has played in only 19 games since the trade due to a league suspension and injuries. In 2023, he suffered a major shoulder injury and then tore his right Achilles tendon twice in the span of three months. Despite this, Haslam believes Watson has a 'great chance' to succeed under new head coach Todd Monken, who has a history of developing quarterbacks.

  • Watson joined the Browns in 2022 on a fully guaranteed $230 million contract.
  • In 2023, Watson suffered a major shoulder injury and then tore his right Achilles tendon twice in the span of three months.
  • Haslam made his comments about giving Watson another chance at the 2026 NFL Annual League Meeting in Phoenix.

The players

Deshaun Watson

The Browns' starting quarterback who has struggled with injuries and performance since joining the team in 2022 on a fully guaranteed $230 million contract.

Jimmy Haslam

The owner of the Cleveland Browns who believes Watson deserves another chance to succeed under new head coach Todd Monken.

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns, known for his ability to develop quarterbacks.

Shedeur Sanders

A quarterback on the Browns' roster who is fresh off posting one of the worst rookie seasons in the past 25 years.

Dillon Gabriel

A quarterback on the Browns' roster who is fresh off posting one of the worst rookie seasons in the past 25 years.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think anybody in our organization would question (Deshaun's) effort, his toughness, everything he's put in the job. ... Now, Deshaun has a great chance, a fresh start, an offensive-minded coach who has, in his past, been able to work with all kinds of different quarterbacks and make them successful. So Deshaun has a great chance to do that now.”

— Jimmy Haslam, Owner, Cleveland Browns

What’s next

The Browns will hold an open quarterback competition this summer between Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel to determine the starter for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Browns' decision to give Deshaun Watson another chance despite his struggles and injuries is a risky move that could further alienate the team's fanbase. However, the team is banking on new head coach Todd Monken's ability to develop quarterbacks and help Watson recapture his former elite form.