Deshaun Watson is reportedly on course to reclaim his role as the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback in 2026, a significant show of faith from the franchise in its $230 million man despite a turbulent period of serious injury and off-field controversy.
The Long-Term Plan for a $230 Million Investment
According to a fresh report from respected NFL insider Ian Rapoport, it is 'more likely than not' that Watson will be under centre for the Browns when the 2026 season begins. This plan persists even though the quarterback is not expected to play at all in the current campaign, despite the team recently opening his 21-day practice window.
The decision underscores a long-term commitment from Cleveland's hierarchy. Owner Jimmy Haslam had previously admitted the team took 'a big swing and a miss with Deshaun', particularly after Watson suffered a second season-ending Achilles injury. Some speculated the Browns might pivot after drafting quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, but neither has yet seized the starting role.
Financial Commitment and Injury History
A major factor in the Browns' stance is Watson's colossal contract. He is owed $46 million in guaranteed money for the 2025 season and is expected to be on the roster when training camp begins. According to salary tracking site Spotrac, Watson is still due a total of $86 million through the 2026 season.
His time in Cleveland has been marred by physical setbacks. Due to injuries and an 11-game suspension, Watson has started just 19 games for the Browns since his high-profile trade in March 2022, posting a 9-10 record. Head coach Kevin Stefanski recently focused on the positive of Watson returning to practice, stating, 'His focus, my focus, is obviously getting him back to playing football, practising football, which he hasn't done in over a year.'
The Shadow of Past Legal Controversies
Watson's injury struggles have unfolded against a dark backdrop of legal issues. His arrival in Cleveland, which cost three first-round picks among other draft capital, coincided with nearly two dozen lawsuits from female massage therapists alleging sexual misconduct.
Key allegations from court documents included:
- Forcing two women to perform oral sex.
- Ejaculating on three women.
- Forcibly kissing another woman.
- Eighteen women stating he touched them with his penis during massages.
The alleged incidents spanned 17 months from autumn 2019. While two grand juries declined to press criminal charges, Watson settled the majority of the civil lawsuits. His attorney, Rusty Hardin, maintained the NFL star's innocence, claiming any contact was consensual and accusing the plaintiffs of lying.
Despite this fraught history and his limited on-field contribution, the Browns' current plan, as reported by Rapoport, is to stick with Watson as their starter for the 2026 season, betting on a return to fitness and form for one of the league's highest-paid players.
