The Browns acquired quarterback Deshaun Watson last season for a lot of money and picks. After serving a suspension, he returned late in the year as the Browns missed out on the playoff party. With high expectations for this season, he played just three games before injuring himself early in game four. He returned to the team for their eighth game of the season and showed flashes of his old self, which was as talked about as an MVP candidate. While recovering from a shoulder injury as a quarterback is not ideal, he put together arguably his best game in terms of making plays thus far.
Browns Quarterback Deshaun Watson Showcased Talent in Return to Action
Carving up the Cardinals
Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson finished the 27-0 win over the Cardinals completing 63.3 percent of his passes. His 19 completions went for 219 yards through the air with two touchdowns and zero interceptions. There were big plays and minimal mistakes, a welcoming sign for the Browns and their offensive struggles at times. Watson also ran the ball three times for 22 yards, a 7.3 yards per carry average. He spread the wealth targeting nine different players with seven recording a reception.
DESHAUN WATSON DEEP TO AMARI COOPER pic.twitter.com/HMozmuW0fr
— Arye Pulli (@AryePulli) November 5, 2023
Wide receiver Amari Cooper is becoming Watson’s favorite target and is amongst the best in the league at getting open. He caught all five targets for 139 yards and a touchdown, including a 59-yard reception. Quarterback Deshaun Watson also found his second option five times and his tight end four times throughout the contest. He was willing to throw the ball downfield but also check it down or run it. He knew he did not need to take on the entire load but also took his chances when he was able to. These are qualities of Watson that can be exciting, so what didn’t work in his previous outings?
Quarterback Deshaun Watson And His Rough Start to the Season
While Watson exited Week 4 with an injury and attempted just five passes, he played the first three games of the year from start to finish. While the team went 2-1, Watson struggled in similar phases throughout the games.
Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson threw a pick in Week 4, as well as two of the three games before that. He also completed 55 and 55.2 percent of his passes in Weeks 2 and 1 respectively. He also recorded just 16 completions and 154 passing yards in Week 1. His biggest pass play of the season was 44 yards before finding Cooper last game for 59.
the throw was fantastic but it’s Watson feeling the rush, stepping up in the pocket and resetting his feet that was equally as important. stuff that you only get back with reps pic.twitter.com/splHf3MYbb
— Jordan Zirm (@JordanZirm) November 5, 2023
Not only were aspects of his passing lacking, but also the mobility that he has shown great flashes of in the past. Watson took just one sack against the Cardinals, showing his awareness in the pocket. By comparison, he took 12 total sacks in his previous three starts, including six against divisional rival Pittsburgh Steelers. Watson also averaged 4.0 yards or less per carry in two of the three starts.
While the game against the Titans featured slightly better numbers for quarterback Deshaun Watson, his flashes coming off a big injury were as welcoming signs as any. If Watson can continue to take care of the ball, get out of the pocket, and find his playmakers, the Browns offense will be in great shape which only benefits the defense.
Main Photo: Scott Galvin – USA Today Sports
