The Cleveland Browns continue to suffer through a dysfunctional quarterback saga. Joe Flacco is no more with the Browns and is shining in his QB1 role in Cincinnati. And while head coach Kevin Stefanski has to rely on rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson has quietly ignited issues with the Browns’ coaching staff.

As of now, Watson remains out to rehab an Achilles injury, but his recent social media update has shown him taking subtle jabs at the coaching staff. The quarterback, not having played particularly well in Cleveland since he was traded there in 2022, appears to be speaking out without directly challenging the team in the public eye.

The incident came to light when Browns reporter Nick Pedone highlighted on X that Watson had “liked” a video criticizing Stefanski’s offensive approach. The clip, uploaded by an ardent supporter, contended that all the quarterbacks under Stefanski fail but succeed elsewhere. Pedone further stated that Watson’s response to the post could be an indicator of his approval of the criticism.

The supporter had previously uploaded a clip explaining why he was unhappy with Stefanski. Watson’s liking of the TikTok video is stoking rumors that the quarterback disagrees with everything the coaches are trying to do but is still committed to his rehab and return.

The soap opera dominated the headlines as Watson suited up for only 19 games after inking his record-breaking $230 million fully guaranteed contract with the Browns. His 2024 campaign was disappointing, with 1,148 passing yards, 5 touchdowns, 3 interceptions, and a dismal QBR of 21.0.

Watson is, however, a keystone of Cleveland’s future, with young quarterbacks on the roster ready to get their chance. There is still some uncertainty about Watson playing this season.

The Browns have recently discarded veteran backup Joe Flacco, and rookie Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel are still probable backups. Cleveland’s staff seems prepared to give the young quarterbacks a go, with Watson’s future still hanging in the balance. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam already called signing Watson a “big swing and a miss” decision in a public comment. HC Stefanski also issued a recent update on Watson’s recovery.

Kevin Stefanski’s on Watson’s injury

Just two weeks back, Adam Schefter of ESPN confirmed that Deshaun was “a good month away from being cleared for any football activity.” Stefanski, however, still does not have any updates on his QB.

Daniel Oyefusi, Browns beat reporter for ESPN, quoted Stefanski’s comment, saying “no real update” on Deshaun Watson’s status. Not an ideal situation for both the Browns and Watson. And while he is still under contract and actually can play for the Browns, the franchise now would rather observe the young quarterbacks and make any return as secure and long-term.

Whether Deshaun is able to come back this season, only time will tell. As for now, the Browns will host the Miami Dolphins in their Week 7 clash, with Gabriel as QB1.a