Historic precedent shows even a Super Bowl won’t guarantee Deshaun Watson’s return

Dawg Pound Daily writer Dante Walker argues that the Cleveland Browns should not automatically retain quarterback Deshaun Watson even if he leads the team to a playoff run or Super Bowl victory. Despite Cleveland starting the 2026 season with a 5-2 record, Walker contends that Watson's play remains mediocre and the team's winning record is largely carried by defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg's unit.

The piece highlights historic NFL precedent to show that postseason success does not require retaining a quarterback, citing examples such as Trent Dilfer with the 2000 Baltimore Ravens, Mitchell Trubisky, and Jared Goff. Walker points out that Watson ranks low in several quarterback metrics, arguing the Browns must avoid recommitting after his five-year, $230 million contract.