Published: April 1, 2025
CLEVELAND, OH – Cleveland Browns co-owner Jimmy Haslam acknowledged on Monday that the team’s acquisition of quarterback Deshaun Watson has been a significant misstep. Speaking at the NFL’s Annual League Meeting, Haslam stated, “We took a big swing and miss with Deshaun. We thought we had the quarterback; we didn’t. And we gave up a lot of draft picks to get him, so we’ve got to dig ourselves out of that hole.”
Background of the Trade
In March 2022, the Browns traded three first-round picks, among other assets, to the Houston Texans for Watson. They subsequently signed him to a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract, the largest guaranteed sum in NFL history at that time.
Watson’s Tenure with the Browns
Watson’s time in Cleveland has been marred by off-field controversies and injuries:
- Suspension: Watson was suspended for 11 games in the 2022 season due to violations of the NFL’s personal conduct policy.
- Injuries: He suffered a torn Achilles tendon in 2024 and re-tore the tendon during recovery, limiting his availability.
- Performance: In the 19 games he played over three seasons, Watson posted a 9-10 record, throwing 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Team Performance and Future Outlook
The Browns have struggled during Watson’s tenure, participating in only one playoff game—a loss in which Watson did not play. With a 3-14 record in the 2024 season, Cleveland holds the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Despite this position, Haslam indicated that the team is not committed to selecting a quarterback, stating the importance of patience and accumulating talented players.
Financial and Strategic Implications
Watson is still owed $92 million on his contract. The Browns recently restructured his deal to create cap space, potentially facilitating his exit in 2026 or 2027. Haslam emphasized accountability, remarking, “It was an entire organization decision and it ends with Dee and I, so hold us accountable.
