As the Cleveland Browns head into a pivotal offseason, Deshaun Watson’s recovery from an Achilles rupture takes an unexpected turn, throwing his 2025 status into doubt.
The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation took a dramatic twist on Monday as general manager Andrew Berry revealed that Deshaun Watson suffered a setback in his recovery from an Achilles rupture sustained in Week 7 of the 2024 season. The injury, initially thought to be on track for recovery, now casts a shadow over Watson’s availability and the team’s plans for the upcoming season.
A troubling development
Speaking during his annual end-of-season press conference, Berry shared that the setback was discovered during routine medical evaluations. While specifics remain unclear, Berry admitted the news was fresh and unsettling.
“So yesterday, as we went through our normal player medical process, we did learn that [Deshaun] did have a setback in his Achilles recovery,” Berry said. “We don’t have all the details on everything yet, but it will obviously extend the recovery process for him.”
Berry could not confirm whether Watson would require additional surgery, leaving the quarterback’s timeline for a return uncertain.
A rough road for Watson and the Browns
Watson’s Achilles injury, suffered in a Week 7 loss to the Bengals, marked his second consecutive season-ending injury. The 2024 campaign was supposed to be a chance for Watson to reestablish himself as the Browns’ franchise quarterback, but instead, it added another chapter to an increasingly tumultuous tenure in Cleveland.
The setback not only extends Watson’s recovery timeline but also deepens questions about his long-term durability. For a team that invested heavily in him—both in draft capital and a historic fully guaranteed contract—this latest development could force the Browns to reevaluate their future at quarterback.
Quarterback uncertainty clouds the offseason
The Browns now enter the offseason with a monumental decision to make at the most important position. With the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Cleveland has the opportunity to select a top quarterback prospect and reset their future under center. Players like Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders and Miami’s Cam Ward are expected to be available, presenting a chance to inject new life into the franchise.
Alternatively, the Browns could explore the trade or free agency markets to bring in a veteran quarterback as a bridge option while Watson continues his recovery. However, any decision to move away from Watson would carry significant financial implications, given the structure of his contract.
Berry’s cautious approach
While Berry was hesitant to speculate on Watson’s readiness for the start of the 2025 season, his comments reflected a cautious tone.
“It’s too early to tell,” Berry said. “Obviously, in a situation like that, I don’t want to rule out anything with a major injury. We are still collecting all the information. Then, obviously, our focus is making sure that he can get as healthy as possible.”
What’s next for Cleveland?
The Browns face a crossroads at quarterback, with Watson’s health and recovery timeline serving as the linchpin for their offseason strategy. Whether they choose to ride out Watson’s rehabilitation, invest in a top rookie, or seek a veteran stopgap, the decision will shape the franchise’s trajectory for years to come.
One thing is clear: the Browns cannot afford another lost season. With a talented roster and a passionate fanbase eager for results, Cleveland’s quarterback conundrum demands swift and decisive action.
