Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has suffered a re-rupture of his Achilles tendon, leading to a second surgery. This injury could potentially sideline him for the entire 2025 NFL season. The Browns face significant challenges regarding Watson's recovery and their quarterback plans, as they hold the No. 2 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has encountered a significant setback in his recovery from an Achilles tendon rupture. Initially injured during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Watson's Achilles re-ruptured, necessitating a second surgery. This development casts doubt on Watson's availability for the 2025 NFL season, as the Browns grapple with the implications of his ongoing health issues and their future quarterback strategy.
Deshaun Watson's Achilles tendon issues have taken a troubling turn, with the Cleveland Browns confirming that the quarterback underwent a second surgery to repair a re-rupture of his right Achilles. Initially injured during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in October, Watson's first surgery took place shortly thereafter. However, during a recent exit physical, he reported discomfort, leading to the discovery of the re-rupture. Dr. Bob Anderson, a specialist in Charlotte, NC, performed both surgeries. The recovery timeline remains uncertain, with Watson likely to miss a significant portion of the 2025 season [1] [2].
The re-injury of Deshaun Watson has significant implications for the Cleveland Browns' quarterback plans. With Watson's status for the 2025 season in jeopardy, the Browns are now faced with the decision of potentially seeking a new quarterback. Holding the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Browns are in a prime position to select a rookie quarterback. This injury further complicates Watson's tenure with the Browns, as he has only played in 19 games since joining the team in 2022, amidst injuries and suspensions. The Browns' general manager, Andrew Berry, has indicated that the team will explore all options, including free agency and the draft, to address the quarterback position [3] [4].
Deshaun Watson's contract with the Cleveland Browns presents financial challenges for the team. With $92 million in fully guaranteed money for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, and a substantial salary-cap hit, the Browns must navigate these financial commitments while considering their quarterback future. The team has restructured Watson's contract multiple times to manage cap space. Despite the financial burden, the Browns are expected to seek cap relief through insurance provisions in Watson's contract, should he miss the entire 2025 season due to injury. This situation underscores the complexities the Browns face in balancing Watson's contract with their roster needs [3] [4].
Deshaun Watson's re-ruptured Achilles tendon and subsequent surgery present a significant challenge for both his career and the Cleveland Browns' quarterback strategy. As Watson faces an uncertain recovery timeline, the Browns must evaluate their options, including utilizing their high draft pick to secure a new quarterback. Additionally, the financial implications of Watson's contract add complexity to the team's plans. The Browns' decisions in the coming months will be crucial in shaping their future on the field.
"Watson's recovery time and return to play status is uncertain, and he will likely miss significant time during the 2025 season." - Cleveland Browns Statement
"I don't want to rule out anything with a major injury. We are still collecting all the information." - Andrew Berry