"I know I'm going to be way better than before." Deshaun Watson's Achilles tendon had people doubting his return. And while it's cause a few troubles in Cleveland, Watson can finally help his squad with a new role.

Deshaun Watson isn't returning to the starting lineup in a different position. However, as a veteran quarterback and the Browns' highest paid player, Watson is making himself useful by helping out Shedeur Sanders. And we're already seeing results.

On Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, we finally saw the most productive answer he’s offered in a long time. Instead of fading into the background, Watson stood right beside rookie Shedeur Sanders, helping him read the defense, breaking down plays, and acting more like a coach than a sidelined quarterback.

It was his first road trip of the season, and he made it count. After Joe Flacco's exit, the Browns lacked experience in the QB position. Although they're rookies have strung together some decent performances, they need insight from players who've been at the top.

And it's not the first time the rookies have received his help. Just last month, QB coach Bill Musgrave revealed how important Watson had been for the team while mentoring Dillon Gabriel. "I try to take myself out of the equation. I don’t need to be there hovering all over them … We miss him on the road. It’s great to have his presence on the sideline for our young group."

Now, with Shedeur Sanders taking over the QB1 role against the 49ers, Stefanski will be more confident with Watson on the sidelines. With Sanders improving every day there's a lot of hope. As Stefanski said, "Are there things that he can do better? Absolutely, and we've already talked about that with him. He has the mentality that he will make the adjustments to the speed of the game, make the adjustments to what people are giving us to make those improvements."

And while Browns co-owner Jimmy Haslam once described the $230 million, first-ever fully guaranteed extension Watson received as a, "Big swing and a miss," it would not be a waste if Watson manages to mould Shedeur Sanders into a star QB. But let's not forget. Deshaun Watson is still a QB. Will he return to his playing role?

When Will Deshaun Watson Return?

Back in January, Watson tore his Achilles tendon for the second time, and a surgery followed. Now, while fans saw Watson practice some snaps on social media and carrying out drills, it isn't practical for the Browns to bring Watson back just yet.

The Browns could activate his 21-day practice period, but if Deshaun Watson cannot return to full fitness in that time and be placed in the active roster, he goes to season-ending IR.

Realistically, Deshaun Watson will only return for the 2026 season, and his contract will be in his final season. Do you think he'll take over starting responsibilities? Let us know in the comments!

Written by

Mohd Mudabbir Ansari

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar