Deshaun Watson has officially won the starting quarterback job for the Cleveland Browns, beating out Shedeur Sanders for QB1 heading into the 2026 NFL season. While that’s the immediate news, insider Tom Pelissero dropped a bombshell: the Browns are probably keeping Watson on the roster for the entire 2026 campaign, no matter what happens, even if Sanders eventually takes over. This isn’t just some casual decision, this is about a massive contract and a player trying to prove he still belongs.
The Cleveland Bet On Watson Is Getting Real
The word from Pelissero is that the Browns are all in on keeping Watson around for this whole season. They actually believe his experience is super valuable, even in a scenario where Shedeur Sanders steps in as the starter later on. Think about that. They’re willing to ride it out with a guy who just snagged the starting spot, knowing there’s a possibility he might not finish the year as the starter, but they value what he brings to the locker room regardless.
This isn’t some cheap deal, either. We’re talking about the final guaranteed year of that mind-blowing five-year, $230 million contract Watson signed back in 2022 when they got him from the Texans. That contract is structured to allow for a post-June 1 designated cut for cap purposes, but for that to even be on the table, he has to be on the roster in March. So, there’s a lot riding on this season, not just for Watson’s play, but for Cleveland’s financial books down the line. It’s a huge commitment, and the team is hoping it pays off.
Back-to-Back Achilles Surgeries Make This A Prove-It Year
Let’s not forget what Watson is coming off: back-to-back Achilles surgeries. That’s no joke, folks. He missed the entire 2025 season because of those injuries. Now he’s got the starting job, and he has to do everything in his power to show he can still be a viable starting quarterback in the NFL. Before all the injury woes, he was a three-time Pro Bowler, a legitimate threat. But after missing so much time, his career truly could be up in the air once the Browns finally decide to part ways with him next year. This isn’t just about winning games, it’s about proving his body can hold up and he can still perform at an elite level.
The Browns and Watson kick off their 2026 season this Sunday. They hit the road for a matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Every snap, every throw, every moment on the field is going to be scrutinized. He needs to ball out and show everyone, including his own team, that this comeback is real.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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