Deshaun Watson to Miss 2025 Season: Setback in Achilles Recovery
In a development that has Cleveland Browns fans holding their breath, Deshaun Watson is set to miss the entire 2025 NFL season following a setback in his Achilles tendon recovery. This unexpected twist surfaced as part of the Browns' routine medical evaluations, placing an extended pause on Watson's comeback journey after his initial injury in October 2023.
Details of the Setback
Watson's Achilles injury had already put the Cleveland roster in a precarious position in 2023. Initially sustained during a regular game in mid-October, the injury's recovery timeline typically spans nine to twelve months. However, as Andrew Berry, the Browns' general manager, shared, the timeline has been significantly altered due to fresh complications. He noted, "As we went through our normal player medical process, we did learn that he did have a setback in his Achilles recovery."
The revelation came as a shock to the Browns' camp. Berry further mentioned, "We don't have all the details and everything yet, but it will obviously extend the recovery process for him." The Browns are still in the process of gathering more information, underscoring that the primary objective is ensuring Watson's health. "It is new information just learned in the past couple of hours, so I don't have everything yet," Berry stated. "I don't want to rule out anything with a major injury. We are still collecting all the information. Obviously, our main focus is to make sure he can get as healthy as possible."
Impact on the Cleveland Browns
Watson's absence adds another layer of complexity for the Browns, who were already facing a challenging few seasons. After starting seven games in 2023, Watson might miss as many as 38 out of a potential 51 games over three seasons due to various injuries. The team, while committed to Watson's health and recovery, also has other pressing matters on the docket. Cleveland recently took steps to restructure Watson's hefty contract, which guarantees him $46 million annually. Such financial maneuvering indicates the franchise's commitment to both Watson and maintaining roster flexibility.
Moreover, the Browns will be navigating the upcoming NFL Draft with the No. 2 overall pick, providing a unique opportunity to potentially bolster their roster. This pick could be pivotal in planning both immediate and future strategies, especially under the current uncertainty surrounding their star quarterback.
A Future of Uncertainty and Preparation
As the Browns sit poised to face the myriad challenges that come with their star quarterback's prolonged absence, the organization remains steadfast in its resolve. While the focus now shifts to Watson's recovery, the Browns are also gearing up to address on-field needs, balancing hope for a healthy return against practical preparations for the 2025 season without Watson.
For Cleveland, this situation is a juggling act of prioritizing player health, strategic contract management, and leveraging draft advantages. As the story develops, Browns fans and the wider NFL community will be watching closely, hoping that Watson's journey back to the field is smooth and swift, however daunting it looks from the present standpoint.