Browns' Deshaun Watson Shares Outlook as QB Competition Heats Up

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has not appeared in an NFL game since tearing his right Achilles tendon on Oct. 20, 2024. That season, he appeared in just seven games, throwing for 1,148 yards, five touchdowns, three interceptions, and a 79 passer rating.

It's a very different team than when he last suited up for a game, and the starting spot is no longer a guaranteed role for the three-time Pro Bowler. Watson is undergoing a quarterback battle with Shedeur Sanders.

The competition is beginning to heat up, with the Browns holding their mandatory minicamp from Tuesday to Thursday. It's an opportunity for new head coach Todd Monken and his staff to get a look at their options.

At 30 years old, he is at risk of beginning the season on the bench. However, when speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Watson clarified that he is honored to be playing again and is focused on earning his place on the field.

"Anytime you get the opportunity to play in the National Football League is an honor, Watson said. "You know, I don't take it for granted. I work hard to do what I need to do each and every day to just try to put out the best, you know, product I can on the field."

Deshaun Watson on getting the opportunity to possibly start for the #Browns again: pic.twitter.com/Mg5AIHfBz2

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) June 10, 2026

Going into the final season of a five-year, $230 million contract, he has been a major disappointment for the Browns. Since being acquired before the 2022 season, he has appeared in just 19 games, throwing for 3,365 yards, 19 touchdowns, 12 interceptions and an 80.7 passer rating.

However, he has the opportunity to put that behind him and turn things around. It may be a while until a starter is officially announced. According to Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot, Monken said he won't name the Browns QB1 out of minicamp.

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This story was originally published June 10, 2026 at 1:42 PM.