The Cleveland Browns have been exploring options regarding quarterback Deshaun Watson’s future after a disappointing 2024 season. The Browns are 3-12, and Watson’s struggles, paired with his massive contract, make a trade scenario highly complex. Despite Watson’s performance and off-field controversies, discussions have surfaced about a potential trade involving Kirk Cousins of the Atlanta Falcons, a quarterback familiar with Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Potential Trade Scenario:
NFL cap expert Jack Duffin proposed a trade structure where the Browns would send Watson, a second- and sixth-round pick, and agree to eat $27.25 million of Watson’s salary to Atlanta in exchange for Cousins and a fourth-round pick. Another scenario suggests the trade could occur post-June 1, allowing both teams to spread the cap hits over two seasons. The revised trade proposal could see the Browns sending Watson, a 2026 second- and fifth-round pick to Atlanta for Cousins.
This deal would provide Cleveland with some cap relief and a bridge quarterback in Cousins, who has history with Stefanski, while Atlanta gains draft capital and the ability to move forward with rookie QB Michael Penix Jr.
Trade Benefits:
1. For the Browns:
Salary cap relief.
A proven quarterback in Cousins who is another year removed from an Achilles injury.
A chance to reset and address Watson’s contract issues.
2. For the Falcons:
Gain draft picks in exchange for some cap flexibility.
Continue to develop Penix while Watson becomes a backup.
Potential to repair Watson’s on-field reputation if he supports Penix.
3. For Cousins:
Reunites with Stefanski, improving his odds of a bounce-back season.
4. For Watson:
A chance to rehab both his injury and his public image out of the Cleveland spotlight.
Drawbacks:
1. For the Browns:
They would still be paying Watson’s contract while giving up valuable draft capital.
Both quarterbacks involved are recovering from injuries, leaving the Browns in a precarious spot.
2. For the Falcons:
Adding Watson could alienate the fanbase due to his off-field issues.
Salary cap challenges might arise.
3. For Cousins:
Potentially limits his ability to test the free-agent market.
4. For Watson:
No control over his future destination and no clear path to starting.
Public Sentiment:
Falcons fans and insiders, including Jeanna Kelley of SB Nation, have expressed skepticism about the team taking on Watson due to his off-field controversies. If such a trade occurred, Atlanta might even release Watson immediately, minimizing public backlash while still gaining draft picks.
In conclusion, while the trade scenario involving Watson and Cousins offers a way for both teams to move forward, it remains a long shot. The financial complexities, fan reception, and performance uncertainties make it an option of last resort for both franchises.
