Cleveland Browns' Deshaun Watson's 2025 Season in Doubt After Second Achilles Surgery; Team Holds No. 2 Draft Pick

Jan 10, 2025, 05:15 PM

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has undergone a second surgery after re-rupturing his right Achilles tendon, a setback that occurred less than three months after his initial injury on Oct. 20. The team announced that Watson's recovery time and return to play status are uncertain, and he is likely to miss significant time during the 2025 season. The injury happened after Watson rolled his ankle in Miami, and an MRI confirmed the re-rupture. Watson, who signed a five-year, fully guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022, has played in only 19 games over three seasons with the Browns due to suspensions and injuries. The Browns still owe Watson $92 million over the next two years, with a $46 million salary and a $72.9 million cap hit in 2025. The team has the No. 2 pick in the upcoming NFL draft, and with Watson's future uncertain, they are expected to consider quarterback options, including Colorado's Shedeur Sanders and Miami's Cam Ward. Both surgeries were performed by Dr. Bob Anderson. The team also has insurance on Watson's contract, which could provide financial relief if he misses the entire 2025 season.