Yahoo Sports NFL on Deshaun Watson
From the article
The Browns gave Watson a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract in March of 2022 and have subsequently received diminished returns – a 9-10 record as starter, a sub-mediocre 80.7 passer rating, an average of less than 180 passing yards per game (177.1) and two seasons in the last two years that have ended early due to injury.
STACKED’s take
Watson's diminished returns (9-10 record, 80.7 rating) prompt owner to call him a 'big swing and miss.'
Watson's tenure in Cleveland has been disappointing relative to his contract. The source notes he has received 'diminished returns' on his five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed deal signed in March 2022, with a 9-10 starting record, sub-mediocre 80.7 passer rating, average of 177.1 passing yards per game, and two seasons in the last two years ending early due to injury. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam stated in March 2025 that the organization 'took a big swing and miss with Deshaun.' The source warns that 'a slow start by Watson will for sure reaggravate a fan base undoubtedly ready to go in a different direction under center' and suggests 'if Watson begins the year like he's played his entire tenure in Cleveland, the Browns should bench Watson and move forward with Sanders.'
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