The Cleveland Browns have enjoyed an impressive run. Meanwhile, Deshaun Watson's form has sparked a conversation about individual honors.

On ESPN's First Take, Stephen A. Smith made a bold claim about the quarterback's resurgence. In particular, he argued Watson deserves the award for Comeback Player of the Year.

Smith pointed to Cleveland's five wins, its position atop the AFC North Division, especially Watson's role in the team's fourth-quarter comebacks:

“Deshaun Watson, right now, is the Comeback Player of the Year. Right now, Comeback Player of the Year. [..] Five wins, first place in the division. All five wins were come-from-behind victories in the fourth quarter, led by him. Considering where he was, how bad he looked on the football field, to what he has looked.”

Beyond his recent performances, Watson's history with Cleveland adds context to Smith's assessment. He missed the first 11 games of the 2022 season through suspension. Then, shoulder problems ended his 2023 campaign, while Achilles injuries sidelined him for much of 2024 and all of 2025.

Browns head coach Todd Monken draws praise for Cleveland's success

Alongside Deshaun Watson's resurgence, Todd Monken has also earned massive praise for his work with his QB1 and the Browns.

Stephen A. Smith praised the coach while discussing the Browns' results on the same show. Furthermore, he also backed Monken's candidacy for a major coaching honor, adding:

“As far as I'm concerned, Monken is one of the top coaches of the year candidates.”

As a result, the endorsement puts the Browns' head coach in the Coach of the Year conversation.

Written by

Sayantan