Cleveland Browns: It's Not Time To Panic On Watson

As a Cleveland Browns fan, it has to be hard not to be in full panic mode even before the season starts. After all, they just gave up a ton of picks to pick up Deshaun Watson and it seems like he’ll be suspended for the season. They gave up a few first-round picks to get him so if he does get suspended it will seem like it’s all for nothing.

With that being said, it might not be all bad with Watson. No matter how you feel about his situation, the Browns took major gamble. It might not pay of the first year. But even with a 1-year suspension, he’ll be returning to the team with some rust but still very much in his prime. When next season starts, he’ll be just about to turn 28. The only problem is he’ll be two years removed from any football activity at the professional level. The Houston Texans buried him on their depth chart last year and this year he’d serve his suspension. As long as he stays healthy and ready to go it shouldn’t be an issue.

More NFL: Did The Browns Give Up Too Much For Watson?

Where the Cleveland Browns really need to be worried about is A. whether or not he’ll be able to pick up and develop instant chemistry within the offense, and B. whether or not fans will accept him. Getting in practice reps and playing in a game are two separate things. It’s not like he’s returning to the Texans where he’d already have some chemistry with the team, coaches, and offensive unit. But even if he takes a year for things to click in the offense, the Browns still have him on the right side of 30.

It was and still is a big gamble that could pay off. However, it won’t be long before fans become increasingly frustrated. Cleveland hasn’t had the best of luck and still is stringing along Baker Mayfield. They’ve made indications that they’d trade him and recover some picks, but now that Watson might not play, that’s still up in the air. Even if he comes back, how disgruntled would he be if he was forced to play for an organization that didn’t want him?

This whole trade screams typical Cleveland Browns. While the trade could still work out in their favor, there’s still a chance it could blow up in their face. No matter how it happens, be prepared for the 2022 season to be considered a wash.