Browns Owner Optimistic About Deshaun Watson's Comeback

Haslam says team is 'excited' about QB's potential return to form.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 1:48am

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of orange, brown, and white representing the Cleveland Browns' team colors.The Browns' future rests on Deshaun Watson's ability to recapture his past brilliance on the field.Cleveland Today

Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam expressed optimism about quarterback Deshaun Watson's future with the team, stating that the organization is 'all excited' about Watson's prospects for a strong comeback season after a decline in his play following his arrival in Cleveland.

Why it matters

Watson's performance will be crucial for the Browns as they look to rebound from a disappointing season and compete in the AFC North division. The team invested heavily in acquiring Watson, and his success or failure could significantly impact the franchise's direction.

The details

After being traded to the Browns in 2022, Watson struggled to recapture the form that made him one of the NFL's top quarterbacks during his time with the Houston Texans. Haslam believes Watson now has a 'great chance' to regain his elite level of play and lead the Browns back to the playoffs.

  • Watson was traded to the Browns in March 2022.

The players

Jimmy Haslam

The owner of the Cleveland Browns.

Deshaun Watson

The starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, acquired in a trade from the Houston Texans in 2022.

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What they’re saying

“We're all excited about Deshaun and the chance he has to have a great year.”

— Jimmy Haslam, Browns Owner

The takeaway

The Browns' success in the 2023 season will largely depend on Deshaun Watson's ability to regain his elite form and lead the team back to the playoffs. Haslam's optimism suggests the organization is fully committed to supporting Watson and believes he can still be a franchise-changing quarterback.