The Cleveland Browns have finally put an end to the swirling uncertainty surrounding their quarterback position for the remainder of the 2025 NFL season. After weeks of speculation and complex injury scenarios, the team has decided to move forward with just three signal-callers, placing their immediate future in the hands of two rookies.
Watson's Return Limited to Practice, Not Game Action
Veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson has made a recent return to practice, a significant step after recovering from a severe Achilles injury. However, he continues to be listed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Despite a key deadline looming on December 23, when head coach Kevin Stefanski must decide on PUP activation, team insiders confirm Watson will not take the field for the final two weeks of the regular season.
Even if activated before the deadline, Watson's role would be strictly confined to practice sessions. Zac Jackson of The Athletic, a trusted Browns insider, emphasised that a genuine return to game action for Watson this season was never a realistic expectation for the organisation.
Rookie Duo to Steer the Ship in Weeks 17 and 18
With Watson out of the picture for game day, the responsibility falls squarely on rookie quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. This decision was solidified following their performance in a narrow 23-20 home loss to the Buffalo Bills.
In that game, Sanders completed passes for 157 yards, throwing one touchdown but also two interceptions. His resilience was tested when he injured the pinky finger on his throwing hand, forcing him to briefly exit. He missed only a single snap before returning. Gabriel stepped in for that lone play, which resulted in a sack for minimal yardage.
Financial Complexities and the 2026 Quarterback Conundrum
While the 2025 rotation is set, the Browns' quarterback puzzle for 2026 remains unsolved. The team has confirmed that Deshaun Watson will return in some capacity next season, but his exact role is shrouded in doubt. A major factor is the daunting financial implication of releasing him; cutting Watson before June 1, 2026, would trigger a massive $131 million dead cap hit.
This financial reality makes Shedeur Sanders the probable starter for 2026, unless the franchise engineers a major roster overhaul. Sanders' record as a starter currently stands at 1-4. He has completed 55% of his passes, with six touchdowns against eight interceptions, averaging 183.8 passing yards per game.
Despite the challenging numbers, his aggressive downfield throwing and added mobility—contributing 123 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground—offer glimpses of promising potential. However, significant development is required, especially if Watson aims to reclaim a starting role upon his full return.
The future of the most important position in Cleveland continues to be a compelling saga, blending immediate rookie promise with long-term contractual and health-related questions.
