The Cleveland Browns are in the market for a veteran quarterback to steady their offense after the quarterback’s situation was left hanging by recent developments.
The Uncertain Future of Deshaun Watson
Deshaun Watson’s time with the Browns has been clouded by injuries and declining performance. Joining the team in 2022 as the center of attention, Watson has been a disappointment on the field. He ruptured his Achilles tendon in October 2024, which ended his season, and a follow-up re-injury in January 2025 has made him uncertain for this season.
Recent Transactions: Quarterbacks
In response to Watson’s unclear status, the Browns have taken significant actions:
- 670649412 Kenny Pickett acquired: The Browns acquired quarterback Kenny Pickett from the Philadelphia Eagles on March 10, 2025 in exchange for quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson and a 2025 fifth-round pick. Pickett has started 24 games for the Pittsburgh Steelers but has yet to prove he is a secure starter.
- The Jameis Winston Era: On board March 2024, Winston was called into action after Watson went down. After a strong start, he fell off and was benched in December 2024. Winston is a free agent as his contract has expired.
Evaluating Veteran Options
Here are the factors that will influence the Browns’ search for a veteran quarterback:
- Experience: A veteran quarterback can offer maturity and stability — key for a team with playoff hopes.
- 04:34 Injury blues: Watson’s injury timeline is still undetermined.
- Cap Space: Given the size of Watson’s contract, financial flexibility is another key consideration.
Potential Candidates
A few veteran quarterbacks are on the free-agent market:
- Marcus Mariota: The former top-5 pick turned journeyman has a strong case to join the Browns as a mobile and experienced starting option.
- Teddy Bridgewater: Bridgewater has built a reputation for accuracy and game management and projects as a steady presence.
- Carson Wentz: It is easy to forget how well Wentz played just a couple of years ago given how things have gone of late, but there is still potential there and a fresh start may help him rediscover his form.
Draft Considerations
With the No 2 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Browns have the chance to land the best quarterback prospect. They recently evaluated Cam Ward (Miami) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado). Picking a quarterback in the draft could mean a long-term solution, although it might take time for him to get ready.
Conclusion
The Browns stand at a crossroads, torn between present-day needs and future-day aspirations. As such, their pursuit of a veteran quarterback seems more antique than simply a good idea; they have uncharted waters in terms of their current roster. The decisions and conditions taken in the next couple of weeks are bound to determine the course of the franchise going into the 2025 season and after.
FAQs
- So why are the Browns looking for a veteran quarterback?
With Deshaun Watson dealing with an injury and having no set timetable for when he’ll return, the team needs a veteran quarterback to effectively run the offense. - What did happen with Deshaun Watson?
Watson suffered two ruptured Achilles tendons, first in October 2024 and again in January 2025, putting him out of action indefinitely. - Who did the Browns sign not too recently?
On March 10, 2025, they traded for quarterback Kenny Pickett from the Philadelphia Eagles. - Should the Browns draft a quarterback?
Yes, with the No. 2 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, they are examining top prospects like Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders. - What does the Browns want in a veteran quarterback?
They want experience, toughness, and leadership to offer stability in these uncertain times.
