A Setback for Cleveland: Watson’s Season Likely Over

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has faced another major setback. During a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, he suffered a severe Achilles tendon injury on his right leg. This injury occurred without any contact from other players, making it a noncontact play. Coach Kevin Stefanski mentioned that the injury looks serious and will likely end Watson’s season. The team is still awaiting test results, but initial signs point to Watson missing the rest of the 2024 season. Watson’s tenure with the Browns has been challenging. He went down in the first half of the game with 1:26 left on the clock. As he planted his foot to pass, his leg buckled, and he fell to the ground in pain. The scene was distressing, with both Browns and Bengals players rushing to his side to offer support. The fans, however, had a mixed reaction. While some cheered and chanted for the backup quarterback, others applauded as Watson was carted off. The fans’ behavior did not sit well with some players. Myles Garrett, the NFL’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year, expressed his disappointment, stating that booing an injured player is shameful. Third-string quarterback Jameis Winston also shared his disapproval, emphasizing that Watson has faced significant challenges over the past four years and has given his all for the city. Watson’s contract with the Browns is fully guaranteed and worth $230 million. His arrival in Cleveland divided the fan base. His first season was marred by an 11-game suspension by the NFL, and his second season was cut short due to a shoulder injury that required surgery. This season, Watson has not performed up to expectations, leading to calls for him to be benched. Before his injury, he completed 15 of 17 passes for 128 yards but was sacked twice. The Browns made significant trades to acquire Watson, sending three first-round draft picks to Houston. However, Watson has made more headlines off the field than on it. He has been accused of sexual assault and harassment by more than two dozen women during massage therapy sessions in Texas. Watson settled numerous civil lawsuits and is still under investigation by the league for a recent allegation.