Dawgs By Nature
The Browns QB has struggled greatly since being acquired in a big trade
When the Cleveland Browns acquired QB Deshaun Watson in a huge trade with the Houston Texans, most believed that the team had finally solved their quarterback problem. While there were huge concerns with Watson’s off-the-field behaviors and some concern about his ability to knock off rust, the QB threw for over 4,800 yards with 33 touchdowns and just seven interceptions in 2020.
The Browns, along with at least four other teams, were willing to give up a ton to acquire Watson from the Texans based on that level of performance.
Once out of the running for Watson, Cleveland secured his services by guaranteeing his entire five-year contract.
Now comes a report from national reporter Charles Robinson that there was concern from at least one executive that Watson’s success in Houston was a product of HC Bill O’Brien:
Much of the problems we are seeing with the Browns this season seem to be processing ones where Watson does not see the reads, defense and progressions appropriately. Robinson’s report mirrors those concerns.
It is interesting to note that O’Brien was fired four games into the 2020 season, Watson’s statistical best.
Did Cleveland’s brain trust overlook these kinds of concerns when pursuing Watson? Was no one willing to share this type of issue with the Browns and the four other interested teams? Or is this executive making things up now as Watson struggles in Cleveland?
All we can do is note that the report and the performance on the field for the Browns seem to match up. Whether Watson can turn things around or not without O’Brien will be shown as the 2024 NFL season continues on.
What do you think about this report coming out now? Share your thoughts in the comment section below
