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Deshaun Watson has transformed the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback conversation in just two weeks. After a difficult preseason and an opening-week blowout loss, Watson has delivered consecutive fourth-quarter comebacks, helping Cleveland move to 2-1 and creating fresh uncertainty about the team’s long-term plans.
The latest turnaround came Sunday, when the Browns defeated the Carolina Panthers 21-18. Watson guided a late game-winning touchdown drive, jogged toward the locker room and received cheers from home fans who had previously booed him during the preseason. General manager Andrew Berry greeted the quarterback with a handshake and hug after the emotional victory.
Deshaun Watson Finds His Footing in Cleveland
Watson’s improved play has given coach Todd Monken additional support for keeping him atop the depth chart. The Browns named Watson their starter after a quarterback competition that lasted from offseason workouts in April through training camp in August. Rookie and second-year options, including Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel and Taylen Green, remain part of Cleveland’s broader quarterback plan.
Watson struggled in Cleveland’s 34-10 Week 1 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, raising immediate questions about whether Sanders might receive an opportunity. Instead, Monken continued to trust Watson’s experience, athleticism and overall body of work. That decision began to look more justified in Week 2, when Watson rallied the Browns from a 10-point deficit to beat Baker Mayfield and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-19.
His performance against Carolina extended that momentum. Watson took a major hit during the deciding drive, briefly allowing Sanders to enter for one play, but returned to finish the possession. The result was Watson’s second game-winning drive in as many weeks and the Browns’ second straight victory.
Clutch Numbers Hide Cleveland’s Offensive Concerns
Through three games, Watson has completed 68.3% of his passes for 587 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. His 62.3 QBR ranks 15th among 30 qualifying quarterbacks, while his fourth-quarter QBR is an impressive 95.1, fifth-best in the NFL.
Watson has also contributed as a runner. After recovering from two surgeries related to a torn right Achilles tendon, he has rushed for 105 yards, the fifth-highest total among quarterbacks. Team sources have told ESPN that his ability to move past mistakes instead of allowing negative plays to snowball has been particularly encouraging.
However, the numbers also show why Cleveland’s quarterback debate is not completely settled. The Browns rank 24th in scoring at 18 points per game and have yet to produce 300 total yards in a contest. Watson has thrown for only 334 yards during the first three quarters this season, and his pre-fourth-quarter QBR ranks 27th.
- Watson has completed 68.3% of his passes.
- He has thrown five touchdowns against one interception.
- His fourth-quarter QBR is 95.1.
- He has rushed for 105 yards.
- Cleveland enters Week 4 with a 2-1 record.
Steelers Game Could Shape Watson’s Future
Cleveland’s Thursday Night Football meeting with the Pittsburgh Steelers carries major AFC North importance. The Browns have won their past four home games against Pittsburgh, but Watson has never defeated the Steelers. In three career appearances against them, he is 0-3, including two games with Cleveland.
The matchup could also reveal whether Watson’s late-game success is sustainable. Cleveland’s defense has returned to form under coordinator Mike Rutenberg, giving the offense room to develop. Still, Monken has acknowledged that the Browns must start games more efficiently and produce more consistently.
Watson’s current contract remains a major factor. Cleveland gave him a five-year, fully guaranteed deal worth $230 million in 2022 after trading three first-round picks to the Houston Texans. The quarterback has endured a suspension, injuries and uneven performances since arriving in Cleveland. His overall QBR with the Browns remains among the lowest in the league.
Even so, the Browns are unlikely to remove a healthy, highly paid quarterback while the team is showing signs of life. An NFC executive told ESPN that Cleveland would probably continue with Watson unless the season deteriorates significantly. For now, the team appears focused on winning rather than making a long-term decision.
Sanders Waits as Browns Consider the Bigger Picture
Shedeur Sanders remains the backup, despite the attention surrounding his selection and the preseason competition. Cleveland also owns two first-round picks in the 2027 NFL draft, including one acquired from the Los Angeles Rams in the Myles Garrett trade. Those picks could eventually be used to target another quarterback or strengthen a promising young roster.
For Watson, the immediate objective is simpler: play clean football and keep winning. He has said he believes he still has plenty of football ahead of him and is not focused on outside criticism. A strong performance against Pittsburgh would further quiet the weekly quarterback questions and give Cleveland more reason to believe its unexpected start is real.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Deshaun Watson still the Browns’ starting quarterback?
Yes. Watson remains Cleveland’s starter after winning the offseason competition with Shedeur Sanders and producing consecutive game-winning drives.
What are Deshaun Watson’s 2026 statistics?
Through three games, Watson has completed 68.3% of his passes for 587 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. He has also rushed for 105 yards.
Who is Deshaun Watson’s backup?
Shedeur Sanders is currently the Browns’ backup quarterback. Dillon Gabriel is on injured reserve, while Taylen Green is also on the roster.
Why is the Steelers game important for Watson?
The game could test whether Watson’s recent late-game success is sustainable while giving Cleveland a chance to strengthen its position in the AFC North.
