Meeting with the media for the first time this offseason, Browns general manager Andrew Berry released a statement regarding Deshaun Watson’s return from shoulder surgery.
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Injuries have hampered the Browns’ 2023 season. When quarterback Deshaun Watson suffered a fractured glenoid on his throwing shoulder in Week 10, it seemed like injuries are too much to overcome and this is a big opportunity he can’t pass up. Eventually, the struggling Browns found a way to finish 11-6 and earn a playoff spot.
After four straight losses and missing the wild card, the Browns are in the middle of the regular season and all eyes will be on Watson and his recovery as he works his way back to Cleveland this spring. According to Browns vice president of football operations and general manager Andrew Berry, the 28-year-old QB is still ahead of the curve in his recovery.
Deshaun is getting better. Berry said in a news conference that the season is over. “He’s doing the best he can with his rehab. He’s doing well. We’re hoping to get him back at least sooner than expected.“ “It’s still early so I’m hesitant to say, but we’re very happy with the progress so far and we’re looking forward to getting it back in the spring.
Since trading three first-round picks and a third- and fourth-round pick for Watson in March 2022, the former Texans point guard has appeared in just 12 games for the Browns, with different products. Watson’s old form has been seen in six matches this season. He had a 61.4 completion percentage, 1,115 yards, seven touchdowns and four interceptions.
Entering the third year of a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed deal, Cleveland still has plenty of signs that Watson was paid the money he signed for and hasn’t even played a full season starting in 2020.
We all love him on the field. Berry agreed. I think it’s safe to say he’s in himself. I love him so much, I’m happy with his progress on and off the field in our organization, and I look forward to seeing him again every year. “We think he’s going to have a big year, and we’re going to trust him to be our starting quarterback.“
Browns management may not be relenting in their faith in Watson, but for many fans patience with him is growing as he reaches his potential. 2024 will be a big season for the Browns QB as Cleveland will deal with the same injury that lost the Royals this season. Not that they don’t care now.
