Deshaun Watson Ruptures Achilles Again, 2025 Season in Doubt
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson faces another lengthy recovery after tests revealed he re-ruptured his right Achilles tendon, casting doubt on his availability for the 2025 season. Watson underwent surgery Thursday, performed by Dr. Robert Anderson, following the injury sustained during the team’s end-of-season exit physical.
Timeline of the Injury
Watson initially tore his right Achilles tendon during the Browns’ Week 7 game against the Cincinnati Bengals on October 20. His first surgery was completed on October 25. During a recent exit physical, Watson reported discomfort after rolling his ankle during training in Miami. An MRI confirmed the re-rupture, prompting the second surgery.
The Browns released a statement Thursday, saying:
“Deshaun Watson underwent a second surgery to repair his right Achilles tendon rupture. Watson’s recovery time and return-to-play status remain uncertain, and he is expected to miss significant time during the 2025 season.”
Contract Restructure and Team’s QB Situation
In light of Watson’s injury woes, the Browns restructured his fully guaranteed $230 million contract last month to reduce the salary cap impact for 2025. Cleveland is now actively exploring quarterback options, especially with the No. 2 pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft.
Watson’s injury history has marred his tenure in Cleveland. He has played in only 12 games over two seasons (2022-23) since joining the Browns, appearing in seven games in 2024 before landing on injured reserve.
Browns’ QB Options
The Browns started Bailey Zappe in their Week 18 loss to the Ravens. Zappe, a restricted free agent, and Jameis Winston, who started seven games after Watson’s initial injury, are potential offseason options. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has remained noncommittal about the team’s quarterback plans for 2024, while general manager Andrew Berry confirmed the team was already exploring alternatives before Watson’s latest setback.
The Browns also have Dorian Thompson-Robinson under contract. A fifth-round pick in the 2023 draft, Thompson-Robinson, 25, has appeared in 15 games, completing 52.6% of his passes for 880 yards with one touchdown and 10 interceptions.
Watson’s Career Overview
The 29-year-old Watson is a three-time Pro Bowl selection and has thrown for 17,904 yards, 123 touchdowns, and 48 interceptions in 73 career games (72 starts) with the Houston Texans (2017-20) and Browns. However, injuries and off-field issues have overshadowed his performance since joining Cleveland.
Future Implications
With Watson expected to miss a significant portion of the 2025 season, the Browns must determine whether to draft a quarterback, pursue free agents, or rely on their current roster. The upcoming months will be crucial as the team navigates this challenge and seeks to return to playoff contention.
