Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson’s availability for the 2025 season is in jeopardy after additional tests revealed that he has ruptured his Achilles tendon again. Watson, who initially tore his right Achilles on October 20th, underwent a second surgery to address the re-rupture after experiencing discomfort following an ankle roll in Miami. This latest setback raises uncertainty regarding Watson’s recovery timeline and potential return to play in the upcoming season.
The Browns released a statement confirming the news, stating, “(On Thursday), Deshaun Watson underwent a second surgery to repair his right Achilles tendon rupture. Watson initially tore the tendon during the Browns’ Week 7 game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Oct. 20. His first surgery was performed on Oct. 25.” The team had recently restructured Watson’s contract to alleviate the salary cap burden for the 2025 season but must now reassess their quarterback situation in light of his extended absence.
Cleveland, holding the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, faces uncertainties at the quarterback position with Watson’s prolonged recovery. Watson’s tenure with the Browns has been plagued by injuries since signing a substantial $230 million guaranteed contract. The 29-year-old quarterback played only seven games in 2024, landing on injured reserve for the second consecutive season due to surgery.
Following Watson’s absence, the Browns turned to Bailey Zappe in their Week 18 loss against Baltimore, prompting the dismissal of offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey. Head coach Kevin Stefanski’s plans for the quarterback position in 2024 remain undecided, with general manager Andrew Berry indicating the team’s intention to explore other options before the latest development regarding Watson’s injury.
Jameis Winston, who started seven games in Watson’s absence during the previous season, is set to become a free agent, while Zappe will enter restricted free agency. Dorian Thompson-Robinson, a fifth-round draft pick in 2023, is the sole quarterback under contract for the upcoming season. Thompson-Robinson, 25, has limited experience, appearing in 15 games over two seasons with modest statistical output.
Watson, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, has amassed 17,904 passing yards, 123 touchdowns, and 48 interceptions across 73 career games, primarily with the Houston Texans before joining the Browns in 2022. His injury history raises concerns about his long-term availability and performance, prompting the Browns to evaluate alternative quarterback options as they navigate a challenging offseason.
The uncertainty surrounding Watson’s recovery and potential impact on the 2025 season underscores the Browns’ need to address their quarterback situation promptly to ensure stability and competitiveness moving forward. As the team prepares for the upcoming draft and free agency, the absence of their star quarterback poses significant challenges that will require careful consideration and strategic planning to mitigate.
