Watson’s Cleveland tenure has been a disappointment by many metrics. He arrived in 2022 via a blockbuster deal that cost the Browns a heavy package of assets, including three first-round picks. In 19 games with Cleveland, he has gone 9-10 while throwing for 3,365 yards, 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
The Browns’ starting quarterback situation remains unsettled, as Watson competes with Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel for the job. Head coach Todd Monken has signaled that all options are on the table, leaving room for the team to potentially add another arm to the quarterback room this offseason.
Analysts and insiders have floated the extension scenario if Watson returns to elite form and guides Cleveland to around 10 wins. If that happens, the debate could shift quickly toward keeping Watson long-term, with owner Jimmy Haslam reportedly hoping for a path to redemption after the trade.
Shedeur Sanders, who started the final seven games of the season, spoke with confidence about his abilities and his potential to dominate at the NFL level. He also described a positive connection with Monken after their initial meetings, emphasizing his belief that he can thrive within Monken’s system while continuing to grow as a quarterback.
Monken, in his introductory remarks, expressed enthusiasm about coaching Sanders and the quarterbacks in the room, while acknowledging that the starting role is still to be determined. Cleveland will closely evaluate internal and external options throughout the offseason as it builds toward next season’s campaign.
