The Cleveland Browns could face another dramatic offseason decision at quarterback. After a disappointing 5-12 finish in 2025, which included Deshaun Watson’s absence following a second Achilles injury, calls are growing louder for the team to explore trade options for its highpriced veteran signalcaller.
Some NFL analysts see the New York Jets as a realistic landing spot for Watson in 2026 – a quarterbackhungry franchise desperate for stability under center. The Jets’ struggles were evident last season, where they rotated through three different starting quarterbacks and finished the year with undrafted rookie Brady Cook starting their final four games.
Watson‘s NFL journey has been one of extreme highs and lows. Once a three-time Pro Bowl quarterback and considered a franchise-changer, he signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract after the Browns acquired him from the Houston Texans in 2022.
That contract was unprecedented in its scope and guarantees, sparking concerns across the league about its long-term viability. At the time, the deal represented both a record-setting commitment from Cleveland and a gamble, given Watson’s history of injuries and off-field scrutiny.
Unfortunately for Cleveland, Watson‘s tenure in Ohio has been underwhelming. Appearing in only 19 games over three seasons, he has thrown 19 touchdowns against 12 interceptions, failing to consistently display the elite playmaking ability that made him one of the league’s most coveted quarterbacks.
His absences due to injury, including a second Achilles tear that sidelined him for all of 2025, have contributed to the Browns’ ongoing struggles and fueled questions about whether his massive contract has been worth the investment.
Jets could be logical fit for Watson
As a result there has been talk that the Jets, coming off a 3-14 season, might seriously consider pursuing Watson if Cleveland is willing to absorb part of his financial burden. Watson is owed $46 million for the 2026 season, a figure that complicates trade discussions.
However, the Jets’ urgent need for a proven quarterback makes him a potential bargain if New York can acquire him for a Day 3 draft pick and the Browns agree to cover a portion of the remaining salary. At 30 years old and with three Pro Bowl selections, Watson could provide New York a chance to stabilize its offense and return to competitiveness.
For the Browns, the decision is anything but simple. Watson‘s contract has limited their offseason flexibility, constraining their ability to add impact players elsewhere.
Yet, if the organization concludes that his performance hasn’t justified the cost, exploring trade options-even one requiring financial concessions-could reset both roster construction and future expectations.
A trade could allow Cleveland to invest in younger talent or address other pressing needs, while Watson gains a fresh start with a team desperate for a quarterback solution.
The potential move would be a high-risk, high-reward scenario for both sides. The Jets could acquire a talented, experienced quarterback who might rejuvenate their offense, while the Browns would finally gain some financial relief and roster flexibility, potentially laying the groundwork for a rebuild.
Watson‘s fate in Cleveland may soon hinge as much on economics as it does on on-field production.
Read the full article here
