Kevin Stefanski Gives Honest Take on Deshaun Watson’s Benching Situation
As the Cleveland Browns struggled with a 1-6 record, the calls to bench starting quarterback Deshaun Watson grew louder. Fans and analysts alike demanded a change, suggesting backup quarterback Jameis Winston should take over. However, head coach Kevin Stefanski never made that switch, and the decision ultimately became moot when Watson suffered a torn Achilles tendon eight days ago. Watson’s season came to an abrupt end with surgery last Friday.
In Watson’s absence, Winston stepped up in a significant way. In his first start, the Browns’ offense came alive, with Winston completing 27 of 41 passes for 334 yards and three touchdowns, leading the team to a comeback victory. His performance immediately raised questions about whether the Browns should have made the quarterback change sooner.
Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot didn’t shy away from pressing the issue. During a Monday press conference, Cabot asked Stefanski if he had considered benching Watson earlier in the season, given Winston’s recent success. Stefanski’s response was candid but forward-looking. “I’m not thinking about that way,” he said, emphasizing his focus on the future rather than dwelling on past decisions.
Stefanski also praised Winston for his debut performance as the starter. While Winston’s performance impressed many, Stefanski suggested there’s even more potential for improvement. “Jameis did a nice job yesterday operating in the system, and I know he feels like he can play better,” Stefanski noted.
Interestingly, Winston’s 300-yard passing game is a benchmark Watson has not yet reached during his 19-game tenure with the Browns. Watson’s best performance as a Brown came in a September 2023 win over the Tennessee Titans, where he threw for 289 yards.
With Watson sidelined for the remainder of the season, all eyes are now on Winston to see if he can sustain this level of play and possibly lead the Browns to a resurgence in the weeks ahead.
