Overview

• The Browns traded three first-round picks and signed Deshaun Watson to a $230 million guaranteed contract in 2022, but he has played only 19 games over three seasons.
• Watson's tenure has been marred by an 11-game suspension, ongoing legal issues, and multiple injuries, including two Achilles tears expected to sideline him for most of 2025.
• Browns owner Jimmy Haslam publicly called the trade a 'big swing and miss,' taking accountability for the decision and its impact on the franchise.
• Cleveland recently acquired Kenny Pickett and holds the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft but is not committed to drafting a quarterback, per Haslam.
• The Browns have restructured Watson's contract twice to manage its financial burden, while the Texans have successfully utilized the draft assets from the trade to strengthen their roster.