BREAKING: Reactions Pour In After Browns QB Deshaun Watson Confirms He’s…see more
April 10, 2025 | Cleveland, OH — In a development sending shockwaves through the NFL world and the Cleveland Browns fanbase, quarterback Deshaun Watson has officially announced his departure from the team, ending a tumultuous chapter marked by high expectations, controversy, and limited on-field success.
The announcement came early Thursday morning via Watson’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, where he posted:
“After much thought and prayer, I’ve decided it’s time for a new chapter. Thank you, Cleveland. Forever grateful.”
The Browns have not yet released an official statement, but sources close to the organization confirm the decision is mutual and effective immediately.
A Complex Tenure in Cleveland
Watson’s time in Cleveland was anything but ordinary. After being traded from the Houston Texans in 2022 and signing a record-breaking fully guaranteed $230 million contract, expectations were sky-high. However, between injuries and off-the-field issues—including an 11-game suspension in 2022 stemming from multiple allegations of misconduct—Watson never fully lived up to the hype.
In his limited starts over three seasons, Watson showed flashes of his former Pro Bowl form, but inconsistencies and a persistent shoulder injury derailed momentum. Many fans remained divided over his acquisition, with a vocal segment of the fanbase critical of the move from the beginning.
NFL World Reacts
Reactions from across the league poured in within minutes of the announcement:
- Former Browns QB Bernie Kosar: “Wishing Deshaun the best, but it’s time for Cleveland to reset and build with stability. This fanbase deserves it.”
- NFL Insider Adam Schefter: “Watson’s exit opens major questions about the Browns’ QB future. Don’t rule out a blockbuster draft move.”
- Browns DE Myles Garrett, via Instagram story: “Brothers always. Best of luck to my guy DWat.”
Cleveland fans, meanwhile, took to social media in a frenzy:
- @DawgPoundDieHard: “So much money, so little to show for it. Good luck, but this era ends in disappointment.”
- @CLEQBTruthers: “Reset button: pressed. Who’s next? Caleb Williams? Trade up time??”
What’s Next for Watson — and the Browns?
As of now, it’s unclear whether Watson is seeking another opportunity within the NFL, considering retirement, or taking time away from football entirely. Several teams with unsettled quarterback rooms — including the Raiders, Commanders, and Seahawks — are expected to monitor the situation closely.
For the Browns, the move leaves a major void at quarterback. Backup QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson remains on the roster, but it’s widely believed the team will look aggressively toward the 2025 NFL Draft or explore trade options.
With a top-10 defense and a strong core, Cleveland remains a talented roster — but without a proven QB, all eyes now turn to GM Andrew Berry’s next move.
Stay with us for continuing coverage as we await official comments from the Browns organization and track where Deshaun Watson could land next.
Let me know if you want updates as if this story were real-time or want a follow-up mock article like “Top Landing Spots for Deshaun Watson” next.
