As the Houston Texans prepare for the playoffs, former franchise quarterback Deshaun Watson received clarity about his future, sparking a reaction from the Pro Bowler.
Watson, 30, just wrapped his fourth season with the Cleveland Browns, who acquired him in a trade during the 2022 offseason. However, Watson did not play a single snap this season due to a re-ruptured Achilles tendon that required surgery in January.
After months of scrutiny about his future, Watson finally got official answers.
Ex-Texans QB Deshaun Watson Gets Critical Clarity From Browns
GettyDeshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns looks on against the Los Angeles Rams.
“Slow motion better than no motion,” Watson captioned a series of images posted on Instagram on January 5. “4OVE!”
The Browns signed Watson to a fully-guaranteed contract worth $230 million over five years following the trade with the Texans. Watson has started 19 games since then, while the Browns have continued to cycle through quarterback options.
Despite his unavailability, Browns general manager Andrew Berry praised Watson.
“First, I’ll say we’re very pleased with how Deshaun went through and attacked his rehab this past year. How he engaged with the team, what he did in the meeting rooms. Very pleased with the progress that he made in that regard,” Berry told reporters during his season-ending press conference on January 5.
“I can never predict the future. But right now, we do anticipate him being on the 2026 team. But we have a long way to go before we get to that point with any player.”
Deshaun Watson Accepted Background Role
GettyDeshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns looks on from the bench before a game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
Watson previously drew praise for mentoring rookie teammates Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. The Browns, who own the No. 6 overall pick in the 2026 draft, could add another draft pick to the mix this coming offseason.
Watson’s off-field turmoil remains a looming cloud whenever discussions about his future arise.
His injuries and play have fueled the negativity. Watson has 3,365 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions on 61.2% completion in that span. He is 9-10 as the Browns’ starter.
Watson promoted his rehab during the season via a series of videos. He recently posted a message to his Instagram on New Year’s Eve after Berry and the Browns determined he would not be activated this season.
Watson had his 21-day practice window opened, but the Browns let it expire.
“Small steps, Everyday, Leads to Big Changes,” Watson posted. “Stay Consistent! MoreGLORY2026!”
Deshaun Watson Could Get Fresh Start With Browns
GettyDeshaun Watson #4 of the Houston Texans reacts during a preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings.
The Browns fired head coach Kevin Stefanski, which could create an opportunity for a fresh start for Watson without the veteran having to switch teams.
Gabriel was a third-round pick, while the Browns selected Sanders in the fifth.
Neither of the two players–or, more importantly, their contracts–prohibit the Browns from sinking more capital into the quarterback position via the draft. Watson’s contract all but guarantees he will be on the Browns’ roster, at least, entering the 2026 campaign.
A new coach could prefer him as a bridge option over having an entirely inexperienced QB room featuring Garbiel, Sanders, and a 2026 rookie.
For Watson, that would be a best-case scenario since he was with the Texans.
Former Texans QB Deshaun Watson Sends Message Amid Major Career Update