Deshaun Watson may be touted as the comeback of the year if he reestablishes his status as the quarterback starter. Heading into the OTAs, Watson seems to have the lead over Shedeur Sanders, who’s also vying for that QB1 spot. However, the fans aren't sold just yet.

NFL insider Tony Grossi has taken a particular interest in following up with the performance and progress of Watson, especially during the OTAs. He revealed on ESPN Cleveland about the recent updates on the QB1 competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. 

“Yes, the guy who is getting the most snaps is the guy who is being the most prepared, perhaps to be the starter,” said Grossi on Watson getting the most reps on day 1 of the OTAs on Tuesday. 

During the first OTA practice session, Shedeur Sanders completed 7 of his 11 passes but also threw an interception. Meanwhile, Deshaun Watson looked far sharper by finishing 13-of-21 without an interception while also registering a touchdown.

“Why not? After two Achilles surgeries and a year-and-a-half of rehab, Watson certainly qualifies as a CPOY candidate. If he wins the starting QB job, he would definitely be a legit candidate,” wrote Grossi.

QB Joe Burrow was the last NFL quarterback to capture the Comeback Player of the Year award after winning it for the 2024 season. The Cincinnati Bengals star also made league history in the process by becoming just the second player ever to win the award twice.

Grossi further revealed why the Browns are committed to Watson. The first reason was that Watson recovered surprisingly well from what the Browns thought were career-ending injuries.

The second reason was that the Browns still have to pay him as his contract runs through 2026.

The final and most interesting reason is that the Browns haven’t found their future quarterback yet. Watson is the only QB veteran on the roster, and his experience is needed on the field for the time being. 

Mike Battaglino of the Browns Nation called it a “bizarre convergence of circumstances” that is paving the way for Watson to have an incredible comeback season.

However, reports from Grossi of Watson being QB1 have left Browns fans divided on the QB1 choice.

Fans Share Mixed Reactions Over Deshaun Watson QB1 Update

Fans of the Browns took to ESPN Cleveland’s post on X after Grossi shared news about Deshaun Watson becoming the potential QB1 lead.

“Watson the starter, Dillon backup and trade Sanders,” commented a fan with their straightforward opinion.

For others, it was far simpler. It simply depended on who was performing better.

“The one who gives us the best chance to win,” commented another fan.

Some fans even brought Grossi's comments from last year into the conversation.

“I thought reps weren’t important? Last year, when we were saying that Shedeur didn’t get the reps he needed, @tonygrossi kept moving the goalpost. Now the number of reps are important. We got receipts,” wrote a fan.

Another fan considered this just practice for Watson, who’s returning after more than a year.

“Or they could be giving Watson extra reps because he hasn’t played in 18 months. Gotta know the rust off and see how this body holds/recovers from the workload,” commented the user. 

Another user asked a question about Watson’s future in the NFL if he played well for the Browns. 

“For how long should the Browns extend Watson’s contract and how much guaranteed money should they give him?” asked the fan.

The Browns are yet to enter training camp, where the QB1 will be announced, once and for all. Who do you think should be the Browns’ QB1?

Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community!

Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Aadesh Dhote