Deshaun Watson
Why the Cleveland Browns Are Expected to Play Deshaun Watson More 1
The Cleveland Browns appear increasingly willing to give Deshaun Watson another opportunity to establish himself as their starting quarterback. With the team showing enough promise to remain competitive, the veteran signal-caller could have a longer window to prove his value than he did earlier in the season.
NFL insider Jeremy Fowler believes Watson’s chances of earning more playing time have improved over the past several weeks. Cleveland has been close to a 4-1 record, and Watson has delivered encouraging moments, particularly with his mobility, giving the coaching staff reasons to remain patient despite his inconsistent tenure with the franchise.
Cleveland Browns, Deshaun Watson, NFL
Deshaun Watson throws at the Browns OTA in Berea on May 27, 2026.
Watson’s ability to create plays with his legs remains one of his most useful attributes. His movement can extend possessions, escape pressure and open opportunities when passing plays break down, providing an additional dimension to Cleveland’s offense. While those flashes have not erased concerns about his overall performance, they could help him make a stronger case for continued opportunities.
The financial implications also complicate the Browns’ quarterback decision. Watson’s contract carries a substantial financial commitment, and paying a player approximately $46 million without putting him on the field could be difficult for the organization to justify. Although financial considerations should not outweigh performance, they may influence how much patience the team is willing to extend before making a definitive change.
NFL Analysis Reveals Reason Why Cleveland Browns Are Projected to Play Deshaun Watson More
Cleveland Browns, Deshaun Watson, NFL
Nov 23, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson watches on the sidelines against the Las Vegas Raiders in the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Watson is projected to receive more playing time this season from Cleveland. This is detailed more in an analysis by Jeremy Fowler for ESPN.
“In Cleveland, Deshaun Watson’s runway is longer than it was six weeks ago,” Fowler said. “The Browns are a few plays from being 4-1, and Watson has had some bright moments, particularly with his mobility. For as maligned as his tenure with Cleveland has been, some NFL teams believe it’s bad business to pay a player $46 million not to play. So, my sense is Watson will get more time to prove himself.”
Cleveland’s narrow losses and competitive performances could further strengthen the argument for allowing Watson additional time. If the team believes it remains capable of contending, making an immediate quarterback switch could introduce another variable into an offense that is still searching for consistency. However, Watson must turn his promising moments into sustained production to justify the continued investment.
Ultimately, Watson’s extended opportunity will depend on whether he can demonstrate meaningful progress in the weeks ahead. The Browns have financial and competitive reasons to keep evaluating him, but patience will not last indefinitely if the results fail to improve. For now, another stretch of playing time could give the quarterback a chance to change the direction of his Cleveland career.