Browns looking to add QB competition in reverse of Deshaun Watson plan

The Browns’ quarterback room is getting a makeover for 2025.

In the midst of a disappointing 3-8 season that’s featured starting quarterback Deshaun Watson struggle under center before suffering a season-ending Achilles injury in Week 7, Cleveland brass is looking “to add competition to the room” currently vacated by the team’s $230 million signal-caller, according to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer.

“The plan, going forward, isn’t the same as it has been,” Breer reported. “Until now, the Browns have built a quarterback room to support Watson. This year, they’ll look, through the draft and/or the veteran market, to add competition to the room. So while the likelihood—because of the injury and the contract— is Watson will be back, the Browns are going to look to do more than just stop-gap the backup spot.”

The controversial union between the Browns and Watson has failed to flourish over the course of three seasons.

Originally acquired by Cleveland in a 2022 trade with the Texans, Watson — facing accusations of sexual misconduct — then signed a five-year contract with the Browns worth a fully guaranteed $230 million.

Watson was suspended for the first 11 games that season and threw seven touchdowns against five interceptions in six games.

Although he showed flashes in 2023, throwing seven touchdowns against four picks through six games, Watson underwent season-ending shoulder surgery last fall, paving the way for veteran Joe Flacco to lead Cleveland to a playoff berth.

Watson looked mediocre at best during a brief 2024 campaign, tossing just five touchdowns against three interceptions.

He was also named in a lawsuit, with an unnamed plaintiff accusing the quarterback of sexual assault from an alleged 2020 incident. Watson reached a settlement with the accuser in October.

The latest report from Sports Illustrated comes on the heels of cryptic comments made by Browns general manager Andrew Berry, who said earlier this month, “It’s always possible” Watson will play for the team again.

The Browns have moved forward with Jameis Winston under center, with Cleveland topping the rival Steelers on Thursday, 24-19. He’s on a one-year deal with the team.

Watson accounts for a $72.9 million cap hit in both 2025 and 2026, according to Spotrac.