During the 2026 annual NFL meetings, Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam took time to speak with the media. He was asked about Deshaun Watson and whether he expects him to start for the team this season. Haslam went on to say, “Deshaun has a great chance, fresh start, offensive-minded coach, who has in his past been able to work with all kinds of different quarterbacks and make them successful.”
It would be a challenging sell to the fans who have felt the ramifications of the Watson trade over the last few seasons. In many ways, it seems best for this team to cut its losses and move forward with the young quarterbacks on the roster. They may feel some obligation to start him, given the financial investment, but it would be extremely difficult to justify if he struggles again. The team should look to the future rather than trying to clean up the mistakes of the past.
Let me know what you think in the comments – Should the Browns consider starting Deshaun Watson this season?