Deshaun Watson seeks to prove NFL viability in final Browns contract year

Deshaun Watson enters the 2026 NFL regular season as the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, facing a critical year to prove his viability following back-to-back Achilles tendon surgeries. Entering the final year of his five-year, $230 million contract, Watson expressed a desire to use this season to showcase that he can still compete in the league.

Head coach Todd Monken recently addressed previous tensions between Watson and the fanbase, describing a past controversial moment as a “speed bump” and a “blip on the radar.” Monken noted that Watson has worked hard to regain his confidence and that the two have had productive private conversations.

While Watson secured the starting role over Shedeur Sanders, NFL insiders suggest the Browns value Watson’s experience and may keep him on the roster for the full season even if Sanders eventually takes over. The Browns are scheduled to open their season against the Jacksonville Jaguars.