Could the Cleveland Browns draft Deshaun Watson's replacement in the 2025 NFL Draft?
The Cleveland Browns are 1-5 heading into their Week 7 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals.
The Browns have struggled to stay consistent to begin the year, especially on offense. One of the biggest reasons for that has been the play of quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Through six games, Watson has thrown 1,050 passing yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions. He has yet to throw for over 200 yards in a game this season.
If the season were to end today, the Browns would have the second-overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. That would put them in prime position to draft a new quarterback.
At this point in the season, many mock drafts are projecting Cleveland to select Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders, son of Hall-of-Fame cornerback Deion Sanders.
Through six games, Sanders has thrown 2,018 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and four interceptions. Colorado currently has a 4-2 record and have heavily outperformed national projections from the preseason.
Sanders also has a very similar play style to Watson with his dual threat ability. The Browns likely won't cut Watson due to his massive guaranteed contract, so if they want to replace him while he's still on the roster, the best option would be a young quarterback on a rookie deal with high upside.
There's still plenty of games left in the regular-season, and the Browns should get multiple injured starters back in the coming weeks, but if Watson continues to play how he has, the Browns will likely be drafting his replacement in April.
