Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is approaching the 2026 season with a renewed sense of clarity and calm. After a tumultuous few years that included a high-profile trade, a massive contract, and off-field legal issues, Watson says he's finally in a better headspace.
“There was a lot going on, so yeah, I’m in a way better space,” Watson told reporters this week. “I’ve matured and I’m happy.”
The Browns acquired Watson from the Houston Texans in March 2022, sending three first-round picks to Houston and signing him to a five-year, $230 million deal. But since then, Watson has appeared in just 19 games, completing 61.2% of his passes for 3,365 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. He also faced a sexual assault lawsuit that year, which added to the pressure he was under.
Watson admitted that he's changed as a person during that time. “I think the biggest thing is I’m an introvert now. I don’t really get into all the outside noise. I used to be a social person back in the day. Now, I’m watching my surroundings and my moves. I’m focusing on the things that I need to focus on.”
Competition Heats Up
Watson is currently locked in a battle for the starting quarterback job with rookie Shedeur Sanders. The competition has been intense, with both players impressing during the offseason program. The qb battle in Cleveland is one of the most closely watched storylines of the summer.
Browns coach Todd Monken has made it clear he won't rush to name a starter. “I really don’t know. I’m not going to name a No. 1 … chances are, I will not,” Monken said, via Pro Football Talk. “Now, once we get to the fall, we’ll have to dissect the reps how we see fit. I just don’t see it after the way Shedeur’s played and Deshaun’s played, they’ve both played well enough to earn the right to compete to start.”
What's Next for Watson?
Despite the uncertainty, Watson appears focused on the present. He's not getting caught up in predictions or outside opinions. Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com recently suggested the Browns should name Watson the Week 1 starter before training camp, but Watson seems content to let his play do the talking.
While the Browns have made other roster moves, including denzel ward expressing his desire to remain in Cleveland amid Myles Garrett trade rumors, the focus remains on the quarterback room. With the 2026 season still months away, Watson is taking it one day at a time.
“I’m in a way better space,” he repeated. “I’m happy. I’ve matured. And I’m ready to go.”
