Cleveland Browns General Manager Gives Tepid Reaction to Deshaun Watson's Potential Future
The future of Deshaun Watson with the Cleveland Browns was uncertain, according to general manager Andrew Berry on Wednesday.
When questioned about Watson's potential return to the team after his season-ending Achilles tear on October 20, Berry responded with a noncommittal statement: "That's always possible."
This was not exactly a strong show of support for Watson, who has not performed up to expectations since signing a massive five-year, $230 million contract with the team.
The earliest the Browns could release Watson without losing salary cap space is after the 2025 season, but Berry did not want to discuss that possibility at this time.
"Our focus with Deshaun, as with any player who suffers a major season-ending injury, is to ensure that he fully recovers from his Achilles injury," Berry stated. "We will address any other matters at a later time."
Berry also did not express any regret over the Browns' decision to acquire Watson in 2022.
"As we have always said, everyone was in agreement," Berry said. "With such a significant commitment, that will always be the case."
Watson's season ended on a non-contact play during the Browns' 21-14 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
The 29-year-old quarterback was suspended for 11 games in 2022 after more than 20 women accused him of sexual assault and inappropriate behavior during massages. Although he was not charged criminally by two grand juries in Texas, a settlement between the NFL and NFL Players Association resulted in a lengthy suspension.
Before returning to the field, Watson was required to pay a $5 million fine and complete a treatment program recommended by behavioral experts.
In seven games this season, Watson completed 63.4% of his passes for 1,148 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions. The Browns only won one of those games and currently have a record of 2-7 during their bye week.
