Though the 2024 Browns have faced their share of adversity, Winston’s leadership has brought renewed optimism.
The 24-19 win demonstrated the team’s potential, even amid ongoing struggles.
Winston’s performance against the Steelers wasn’t flashy – completing 18 of 27 passes for 219 yards with an interception – but it showcased his capability as an NFL starter.
His steady presence could provide the perfect transition as the Browns likely eye a rookie quarterback in the 2025 draft.
While Watson’s substantial contract continues to impact the team’s financial flexibility, the path to contention may not be as distant as it once appeared.
The contrast between Watson’s limited availability and Winston’s recent success has only intensified the scrutiny of the Browns’ front office decision.
That guaranteed money, unprecedented in NFL history, now looms large over the organization’s future plans, serving as a constant reminder of a gamble that has yet to pay off.