The Cleveland Browns have announced that they will not activate quarterback Deshaun Watson from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, a decision that has significant implications for the team’s performance as they progress through the 2023 NFL season. Watson, who has been sidelined due to a shoulder injury, will remain on the PUP list for the foreseeable future, leaving the Browns to rely on their backup quarterbacks.
Watson, 28, was acquired by the Browns in a blockbuster trade with the Houston Texans in March 2022, a move that came with considerable controversy due to his off-field legal issues. The Browns traded three first-round draft picks and signed Watson to a five-year, $230 million contract, fully guaranteed, making it one of the most lucrative deals in NFL history. His arrival was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts, given the allegations of sexual misconduct that had been levied against him during his time in Houston.
In the 2022 season, Watson faced a suspension of 11 games due to violations of the NFL’s personal conduct policy, which stemmed from the allegations against him. He returned to the field in December 2022 but struggled to regain his previous form, completing just 58.2% of his passes and throwing for seven touchdowns against five interceptions in six games. The Browns finished the season with a disappointing 7-10 record, missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year.
As the 2023 season approached, Watson’s health became a focal point for the Browns. He underwent shoulder surgery in January 2023, which raised concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season. The team placed him on the PUP list at the start of training camp, which meant he would be ineligible to participate in practices or games until he was activated. The PUP list is typically used for players recovering from injuries that prevent them from practicing, and being placed on it allows teams to manage their rosters more effectively.
The decision to keep Watson on the PUP list comes as the Browns prepare for their Week 5 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. The team has turned to backup quarterbacks, including Dorian Thompson-Robinson and P.J. Walker, to fill the void left by Watson’s absence. Thompson-Robinson, a rookie out of UCLA, has shown flashes of potential but has also faced challenges in his transition to the NFL. Walker, who has experience as a backup in the league, provides a more seasoned option but has limitations in terms of long-term viability as a starter.
The Browns’ decision not to activate Watson raises questions about his long-term health and the team’s future. If Watson remains on the PUP list for the entire season, he will miss at least the first six games, and the Browns will have to navigate the challenges of competing in a highly competitive AFC North division without their starting quarterback. The division includes formidable opponents such as the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals, both of whom are expected to contend for playoff spots.
The implications of this decision extend beyond the current season. The Browns’ investment in Watson was predicated on the belief that he could be a franchise quarterback capable of leading the team to success. If he is unable to return to form or if his injury issues persist, it could impact the team’s long-term strategy, including future draft picks and free agency decisions. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding Watson’s status may affect the team’s locker room dynamics and overall morale.
As the Browns navigate this challenging situation, they will need to focus on maximizing the potential of their backup quarterbacks while also monitoring Watson’s recovery closely. The team’s coaching staff, led by head coach Kevin Stefanski, will have to make strategic adjustments to their offensive game plan to accommodate the strengths and weaknesses of their current signal-callers.
In conclusion, the decision to keep Deshaun Watson on the PUP list underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the Cleveland Browns as they seek to establish themselves as a competitive force in the NFL. With the season already underway and critical games approaching, the team’s ability to adapt to Watson’s absence will be crucial in determining their success in 2023. The situation remains fluid, and the Browns will continue to evaluate Watson’s progress as they move forward in the season.
