Deshaun Watson is reportedly believed to become the Cleveland Browns' QB1 for the upcoming season. However, his long-term future with the Browns still remains a question, considering the massive contract Watson initially signed in 2022.

After being away from the field for nearly one and a half years, the quarterback is back in training sessions for the 2026 season. ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler reported that Watson might stay in Cleveland despite things not working out in his favor this season.

“The source close to Watson said the QB is focused solely on the upcoming season," Fowler reported. "But believes he isn’t against staying in Cleveland beyond 2026 if things go well.”

During his tenure with the Browns, Watson has played only 19 games due to a 12-game suspension in 2022, a shoulder injury in 2023 and two Achilles tear injuries sustained in 2024 and 2025 respectively.

According to ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, a source close to Watson has said that the QB has no ill will towards the Browns. He would be open to continuing with the team if everything pans out well for him in the upcoming season.

Fowler further added that both Watson and the Browns’ HC Todd Monken have hit it off, with the latter giving him a “clean slate” ahead of the 2026 season. 

“I’m all for a clean slate. I want the best for every player that we have, every coach,” Monken said. “I think it’s really cool that he still has an opportunity to showcase his ability, see where he’s at. I’m all for it.”

Watson has a final chance to revive his career. Until he ends up becoming the Browns' starter QB, his future in Cleveland would continue to be under speculation.

Browns Insider Sheds Light Onto Deshaun Watson’s Future in Cleveland

Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot answered questions about the quarterback battle and whether Deshaun Watson would consider sticking around with the Browns if he returned to his original form.

“If Watson returns to his Pro Bowl form and plays like he did in Houston six years ago, the Browns would consider extending him after this season,” Cabot answered. “An extension might be a long shot, but they aren’t ruling it out."

On the contrary, sportscaster Ken Carman of 92.3 The Fan show voiced his disagreement with the news of Watson considering to continue with the Browns. The disagreement holds some weight, as Watson recorded low quarterback ratings during his starts.

“If he goes out and plays well, we’ve got a whole new set of circumstances because I don’t think he’s going to want to be here,” Carman said. “We’re going to go through it all. If he plays well and finds a way out of here to continue his NFL career, he’s going to be on the first train out of town. 

While an extension seems unlikely at this stage, the Browns are keeping the door open if the QB can return to that form that once made him one of the NFL’s elite passers. 

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Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Rishab Nandi