Deshaun Watson‘s tumultuous career with the Cleveland Browns has taken another devastating turn.
The quarterback has suffered a second Achilles tear in just three months, casting significant doubt on his availability for the 2025 NFL season. Watson underwent surgery once again, and the team has confirmed he will be sidelined for an extended period.
The Browns announced the injury in a statement, explaining that Watson sustained the re-rupture while in Miami. “MRI results demonstrated a re-rupture to his Achilles tendon,” the team revealed. “Dr. Bob Anderson, a foot and ankle specialist in Charlotte, NC, performed both surgeries.” The Browns did not provide a specific timeline for his recovery, stating only that he will miss “significant time.”
Watson’s Future in Cleveland Uncertain
This latest injury has compounded the uncertainty surrounding Watson‘s future with the Browns. With the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the team is widely expected to select a quarterback, raising questions about whether Watson will ever reclaim his starting position. His performance before the injuries had already fallen below expectations, further complicating his path forward.
Watson signed a fully guaranteed $230 million, five-year contract with the Browns in 2022, a move that was controversial due to his legal troubles and inconsistent play. Since joining the team, he has appeared in just 19 games and has been plagued by injuries, including shoulder surgery in 2023 and two Achilles tears in 2024.
Controversy and Setbacks Define Watson’s Career
Off-field controversies have also overshadowed Watson’s career. He served an 11-game suspension in 2022 after over 20 women accused him of sexual misconduct during massage sessions. Though he avoided criminal charges, Watson was fined $5 million and required to complete a behavioral treatment program as part of a settlement with the NFL. Additionally, in October 2024, Watson settled another lawsuit involving allegations of sexual assault and battery.
Despite these issues, Watson was expected to be a cornerstone of the Browns’ offense. However, his struggles on the field, including a 1-6 record in the seven games he played this season, have left the team scrambling for answers. The Browns’ quarterback carousel continued, with the team starting multiple signal-callers in each of the past two seasons.
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Browns Face a Crucial Offseason
The Browns have already begun making changes, parting ways with offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey and offensive line coach Andy Dickerson. Meanwhile, General Manager Andrew Berry reassured fans about the team’s commitment to defensive star Myles Garrett, who has expressed frustration with the franchise’s direction.
“I don’t envision an offseason where we’re moving on from a ton of core players,” Berry stated, signaling a focus on rebuilding rather than overhauling.
As for Watson, his NFL future is more uncertain than ever. With another lengthy recovery ahead, the quarterback must now grapple with the possibility of losing his starting role-and perhaps his place in the league entirely.
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