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The Browns record has become one of the NFL’s most surprising early-season storylines. Cleveland enters its Week 4 Thursday Night Football matchup with the Pittsburgh Steelers at 2-1, and Deshaun Watson’s recent improvement has changed the tone around a quarterback situation that appeared headed for a major reset.
Watson led the Browns to consecutive fourth-quarter comebacks, first rallying Cleveland past the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and then producing a game-winning drive against the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers game ended in a 21-18 Browns victory, giving Cleveland momentum and placing the team in contention for the AFC North lead.
Why the Browns Record Has Changed the Quarterback Debate
Only a few weeks ago, many observers expected the Browns to move on from Watson after the 2026 season. Cleveland had endured inconsistent quarterback play, significant injuries and the financial burden attached to Watson’s fully guaranteed contract.
Instead, the 31-year-old quarterback has stabilized the offense in key moments. He won the starting job over rookie Shedeur Sanders following a competition that lasted from offseason workouts through training camp. Rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel is currently on injured reserve, while Sanders remains Watson’s primary backup.
“There’s a lot of football left in him,” Browns coach Todd Monken said, according to ESPN, emphasizing his belief that Watson can continue to improve while learning Cleveland’s offensive system.
Watson’s recent production has not been spectacular across every quarter, but it has been effective when the Browns need him most. Through three games, he has completed 68.3% of his passes for 587 yards, five touchdowns and one interception. His 62.3 QBR ranks 15th among qualifying quarterbacks, while his fourth-quarter QBR of 95.1 ranks fifth in the league.
Watson’s Clutch Play Is Fueling Cleveland’s Surge
The strongest argument for keeping Watson on the field is his ability to recover from mistakes and deliver late. Cleveland’s quarterback has also contributed as a runner, recording 105 rushing yards despite returning from two surgeries related to a torn Achilles tendon.
- Watson has led two consecutive game-winning drives.
- He has thrown five touchdowns against one interception.
- His fourth-quarter QBR is 95.1.
- He has added 105 rushing yards.
- The Browns have opened the season 2-1.
Team sources told ESPN that Watson’s ability to move beyond negative plays has stood out. Rather than allowing a mistake to create a longer collapse, he has managed games more efficiently in crucial stretches.
That progress has also improved the atmosphere around the Browns. Watson was loudly booed during the preseason after struggling and later criticized the reaction from fans. Following the victory over Carolina, however, he jogged toward the locker room to cheers and shared an emotional handshake and hug with general manager Andrew Berry.
Critical Concerns Still Surround the Browns Offense
Despite the positive Browns record, Cleveland’s offense remains a work in progress. The team is averaging only 18 points per game and has yet to produce 300 total yards in a contest. Watson has thrown for just 334 yards across the first three quarters this season, and his pre-fourth-quarter QBR ranks near the bottom of the league.
His average depth of target is 6.2 yards, a career low and one of the lowest figures among NFL quarterbacks. Watson has also posted a 16% off-target rate, showing that the late-game success has come alongside uneven stretches.
Those limitations could become more obvious against Pittsburgh. Watson is 0-3 against the Steelers during his career, including two starts with Cleveland. In those games, he completed 59.4% of his passes and recorded three touchdowns and three interceptions.
The Browns defense, led by new coordinator Mike Rutenberg, has shown signs of returning to form. If that unit continues to limit opposing offenses, Cleveland may not need Watson to produce explosive numbers every week. However, the offense must eventually become more consistent if the team hopes to remain in the playoff race.
What the Browns Record Means for the Future
For now, Cleveland has little reason to replace Watson. An NFC executive told ESPN that a healthy quarterback earning between $40 million and $46 million annually would be unlikely to lose his job early in the season while the team is showing signs of life.
The long-term picture remains unclear. The Browns still own two first-round picks in the 2027 NFL draft, including one acquired from the Los Angeles Rams in the Myles Garrett trade. Those selections could eventually be used to target another quarterback or strengthen a young roster.
Watson’s contract, past performance and injury history ensure that questions will continue. Still, the current Browns record has bought him valuable time. More wins and sustained improvement could turn a temporary reprieve into a legitimate opportunity to remain Cleveland’s quarterback beyond this season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Browns record in 2026?
The Cleveland Browns entered Week 4 with a 2-1 record after consecutive victories over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Carolina Panthers.
Who is the Browns’ starting quarterback?
Deshaun Watson is Cleveland’s starting quarterback after winning a competition with rookie Shedeur Sanders during the offseason and training camp.
How has Deshaun Watson performed this season?
Watson has completed 68.3% of his passes for 587 yards, five touchdowns and one interception through three games.
What is Watson’s biggest strength so far?
His biggest strength has been late-game execution. Watson has led two consecutive game-winning drives and owns a 95.1 fourth-quarter QBR.
Could the Browns draft another quarterback?
Yes. Cleveland owns two first-round picks in the 2027 NFL draft, giving the franchise valuable flexibility if the quarterback situation remains unsettled.
