Browns QB Deshaun Watson Aims for Comeback Season

Watson shares video of offseason training, vows to be 'locked in' after missing 2024 with injuries

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:58am

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An abstract, expressionist painting depicting the explosive energy and motion of an NFL quarterback's throwing motion, with vibrant neon colors and rapid brushstrokes capturing the raw athleticism, but with the player's face and uniform details dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of paint.As Deshaun Watson aims to reclaim his starting role, the Browns hope his offseason commitment translates to a resurgent season on the field.Cleveland Today

Deshaun Watson, the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback, is preparing for a crucial 2025 season after missing all of 2024 due to a string of significant injuries, including two Achilles surgeries. Watson has appeared in just 19 games over four seasons with the Browns, throwing for 3,365 yards with 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Now healthy and at a career crossroads, Watson is fully committed to turning things around and reclaiming the starting job, sharing a video of an offseason throwing session with teammates.

Why it matters

The Browns have invested heavily in Watson, signing him to a fully guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022. If he can't stay healthy or produce on the field this season, his future in the NFL could be in jeopardy. The team is hoping Watson can finally live up to his potential and lead them to success after a disappointing stretch.

The details

Watson is entering the final year of his contract with the Browns and is expected to battle second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders for the starting job through the offseason program and training camp. New head coach Todd Monken has praised Sanders for his commitment to being present at the team's facility this offseason, while Watson has shared a video of himself training with several NFL players, including Jerry Jeudy and Isaiah Bond.

  • Watson suffered an Achilles injury in October 2024, missing the entire 2024 season.
  • Watson is set to report to the Browns' offseason program on April 7, 2025.

The players

Deshaun Watson

The Browns' starting quarterback who is aiming to reclaim his job after missing the 2024 season due to injuries.

Shedeur Sanders

The Browns' second-year quarterback who is expected to compete with Watson for the starting job.

Todd Monken

The Browns' new head coach who has praised Sanders for his commitment to the team this offseason.

Jimmy Haslam

The Browns' owner who has expressed renewed optimism about Watson's outlook after previously calling the trade a 'big swing and miss.'

Jerry Jeudy

An NFL wide receiver who was seen training with Watson in a video shared by the quarterback.

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What they’re saying

“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, Browns Owner

“It's too early to really evaluate him other than it's been great that he's been in the building. It's refreshing to see a player that recognizes where he's at and where he wants to get to.”

— Todd Monken, Browns Head Coach

“Work mode: always on!”

— Deshaun Watson

What’s next

The Browns will begin their offseason program on April 7, 2025, where Watson and Sanders will compete for the starting quarterback job.

The takeaway

This season represents a critical crossroads for Deshaun Watson's NFL career. If he can stay healthy and reclaim his starting role, the Browns have expressed renewed optimism that he can lead the team to success. However, if the injuries continue to derail him, Watson's future in the league could be in jeopardy.