The Falcons’ quarterback situation has been a topic of discussion, but it doesn’t compare to the challenging circumstances the Browns face with Deshaun Watson. While Atlanta is in a quarterback dilemma, they’ve invested only a third-round pick and a few million dollars. In contrast, Cleveland has invested multiple first-round picks and an unprecedented $230 million contract in Watson.
Despite being a three-time Pro-Bowler, Watson has struggled since joining the Browns, and matters have worsened as he is set to undergo season-ending surgery on his throwing shoulder. Despite a recent standout performance, injuries have plagued Watson during his time in Cleveland. In his latest game against the Ravens, he went 20-of-34 for 213 yards with one touchdown and one interception, also rushing for 37 yards on eight carries.
For the 2023 season, Watson’s performance has been underwhelming, completing 61.4% of his passes for 1,115 yards, seven touchdowns, and four interceptions in six games. Considering the hefty $230 million contract, this is seen as a significant disappointment. While the Browns have a 5-1 record in games that Watson started, much of their success is attributed to the dominant defense, except for the recent game in Baltimore
Comparatively, the Falcons lack a clear direction at the quarterback position, but at least they haven’t committed $90.8 million to Deshaun Watson for just 11 games of work. The Browns not only paid Watson more than $90 million for less than a full season but also restructured his contract to reduce his cap hit to $19 million for 2023, resulting in a cap hit of $63.9 million per season for the next three years.
While the Falcons may not have a definitive franchise quarterback, they have a healthy cap sheet and numerous draft picks to potentially address the situation, making their predicament less severe than the Browns’.
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