Dawgs By Nature
Two of the biggest mistakes the Cleveland Browns organization has made in the franchise’s history are both at quarterback: the drafting of Johnny Manziel and the trade for Deshaun Watson. Both decisions had massive ripple effects on the team’s ability to succeed, but which one appears to be more detrimental long-term?
While the Manziel era was an unpleasant time in Cleveland, Watson’s situation is much more damaging to the franchise long-term. The financial and cultural impacts influenced both the team’s potential for improvement in other areas and the way the organization is perceived throughout the league.
The Browns committed their future to him with a fully guaranteed $230 million contract, significantly impacting the team’s salary cap. They also gave up significant draft assets – six total picks, including three first-round picks – which has hindered their ability to bring in young talent. Those effects become more apparent with each passing season, especially when examining position groups like the offensive line. Early picks in the draft are often used on the group, and Cleveland had multiple years where it was challenging to improve at the position.
Both players brought a negative cloud over the Browns’ organization. Manziel’s immaturity and behavioral issues caused others to view them as an unserious organization. The Watson trade was a PR disaster that caused fans to question ownership, the front office, and whether or not they wanted to continue supporting this team. While both had a negative effect culturally, it appears that Watson’s impact is much more long-lasting.
Let me know what you think in the comments – Was Manziel or Watson more detrimental to the Browns long-term? If you feel like the difference is stark, how much worse is one versus the other?
