The Cleveland Browns may start thinking about a future without Deshaun Watson as early as next year.
Watson’s time in Cleveland has been rocky since he came in 2022 via a major trade. It’s been defined by off-field problems, injuries and mostly below-average play on the field. If Watson doesn’t meet expectations during his third season in Cleveland, the Browns could start moving in a different direction.
In an early 2025 mock draft, FOX Sports draft analyst Rob Rang predicts that the Browns will pick Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe with the No. 18 overall pick.
“To become a first-round NFL draft choice, Milroe will need to show significant improvement as a pocket thrower, but he has a head coach in Kalen DeBoer who can enhance his accuracy and ability to predict plays and, of course, already possesses outstanding size and athleticism,” Rang wrote. “Milroe will be one of the most intriguing and closely examined prospects in the country next season.”
Regardless of Milroe’s draft standing, it would be an interesting choice for the Browns, who are tied to Watson until 2026 on a fully guaranteed contract. Picking a quarterback in the first round would indicate that Watson’s time in Cleveland is at least limited.
However, next year’s draft is a year away and a lot can change between now and then.
Browns Expect Big Season Out of Deshaun Watson
Getty ImagesThe Browns anticipate a successful season from Deshaun Watson.
Watson has had a tough time so far in Cleveland. And he’s coming off season-ending shoulder surgery. However, the team has not wavered with their confidence in him. Browns general manager Andrew Berry expects his $230 million passer to have a big year.
“We feel very positive about the transition. He is in a good place mentally and physically,” Berry said during an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show. “Obviously, he’s been rehabbing the shoulder injury, but he is well on his way there and in a really strong spot. I think he’s a lot more comfortable within the organization. You know, we have a core group of guys on offense that have now played together for a number of years.
“We do expect to hit the ground running on that side of the ball, and I know he is very excited about returning to the playing field and getting over this injury. We do have high expectations for him and the offense this season.”
Browns Added Solid Depth Behind Deshaun Watson
Getty ImagesThe Browns added some QB depth this offseason behind Deshaun Watson.
The Browns made the playoffs last season but started five different quarterbacks. Cleveland is seemingly more prepared if Watson ends up missing time with injury issues.
The Browns signed former top pick Jameis Winston to as a backup to Watson. The team also added Tyler Huntley, who has starting experience from his time with the Baltimore Ravens. They’ll join second-year QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson on the depth chart.
The hope for the Browns is that the backup quarterback spot won’t be as discussed as it was a year ago. And if Cleveland can get a full season out of Watson, it will give them a better read on the future of the quarterback position.
