Browns face Deshaun Watson decision, warns ex-GM.

Deshaun Watson is the Cleveland Browns’ current QB1 contender after minicamp, but skepticism remains about his ability to play a full season due to Achilles injuries. A former NFL GM, Mike Tannenbaum, cautions that while Watson’s arm looks sharp in shorts, moving in the pocket under real game pressure could reveal long-term mobility limitations, given he has endured two Achilles tears and back-to-back surgeries. He doubts Watson can stay healthy for all 17 games, suggesting movement and short-area quickness will be the real test once the season starts.

The Browns’ quarterback battle also features Shedeur Sanders, who is still in contention as Watson seizes the early edge by taking the majority of first-team reps and handling red-zone and two-minute drill scenarios during mandatory minicamp. Cleveland aims to establish a clear QB hierarchy by mid-June, with GM Andrew Berry downplaying any automatic advantage from Watson’s experience. Watson’s contract year adds pressure: at 30, he must not only win the starting job but perform consistently to secure his future in the NFL.

Key highlights:
– Watson leads in minicamp but faces mobility questions tied to Achilles injuries.
– Tannenbaum questions Watson’s ability to play 17 games, though he trusts Watson’s throwing ability.
– Sanders remains a serious challenger as the Browns work to establish a QB hierarchy before mandatory minicamp ends.
– Watson’s guaranteed $230 million contract heightens the stakes for a durable, high-level season.