Deshaun Watson's Status Uncertain as Browns Prepare for Final Games

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will not be activated from the physically unable to perform list for the remainder of the 2025 season, as announced by head coach Kevin Stefanski. This decision comes after Watson returned to practice on December 3, opening a 21-day window for activation.

Watson has been recovering from multiple Achilles surgeries and has not played since suffering an injury in the seventh game of the 2024 season. Despite previously being considered for a return, the Browns opted to keep him sidelined while they push toward the playoffs.

Watson, who signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million deal with the Browns, has played only 19 games since the trade from the Houston Texans in 2022, accumulating a 9-10 record. The Browns are now left in a precarious quarterback situation as they prepare for their final games against the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals.

Veteran quarterback Joe Flacco was traded earlier this season, leaving Shedeur Sanders as the current starter. The Browns will remain responsible for Watson's contract next season, with over $80.7 million counting against the salary cap in 2026.

Owner Jimmy Haslam has publicly expressed regret regarding the Watson acquisition, indicating it has been a significant misstep for the organization. Watson's absence further complicates the Browns' potential playoff aspirations as the team grapples with the fallout from this decision.