Second chances in the NFL are very rare, especially when a player has suffered injuries, scrutiny, and years of uncertainty. Yet for the Cleveland Browns' quarterback Deshaun Watson, the chance to continue in the league is something he'll never forget.

After the minicamp, Watson talked with the media about getting another chance with the Browns. His comments reveal his mindset as he works toward reclaiming his position on the field.

"It's a blessing, it's great," said Watson, as posted by Akron Beacon Journal. "It's anytime you get the opportunity to play in the National Football League is an honor. 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."

The veteran QB acknowledged that it is a commitment to become the best version of himself for his team and career.

The Browns have invested heavily in Watson, but injuries and inconsistent availability have held the partnership from reaching its full potential. He suffered from a ruptured right Achilles tendon in October 2024, which caused him to miss the entire 2025 season.

As a result, every step of his recovery remains under close observation. The franchise hopes Watson can provide stability and leadership while helping the offense to get back its competitive edge.

Watson has played 19 games for Browns with a 9-10 record as a starter. He has thrown for a total of 17,904 yards and 123 touchdowns across his NFL career and holds a regular-season starting record of 37-35-0.

For now, Watson appears focused on maximizing opportunity still in front of him rather than sticking to what has already happened. Whether Watson reclaims himself as QB1 in the ongoing battle with Shedeur Sanders remains to be seen.

Watson Makes Strong Health Declaration Ahead of 2026 Season

After battling injuries and setbacks, Deshaun Watson believes he is finally fully fit. The Browns QB is entering the 2026 season with new confidence as he looks forward to establishing himself as the team's long-term answer.

"I could say that now I'm fully healthy, ready to go," Watson told ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi. "This last year, I was able to conquer that, and then I'd just say I haven't been 100% since that Tennessee game in '23."

During the match against the Tennessee Titans in September 2023, Watson sustained a severe hit while running the ball, resulting in a bruised and strained rotator cuff in his throwing shoulder.

Since then, he faced a lengthy recovery process that limited his performance.

The veteran QB's tenure has been full of injuries and inconsistency. With his health concerns behind him, Cleveland will be hoping that the former Pro Bowler can give the level of play the franchise viewed when it made its great investment.

Do you think Watson can reclaim the QB1 spot?

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi