The Watson-Stefanski Speculation Continues To Build
Syndication: The Indianapolis Star
While most aren’t surprised that the Cleveland Browns sit at 4-2 after week seven of the 2023 NFL season, no one would’ve predicted how they’ve won their last two games. If you were afraid that the Browns used up all their magic last week, boy were you wrong. Sunday’s game took all 60 minutes and wasn’t for the faint of heart as a fourth and goal from the one-yard line is what it took.
But what’s been more surprising than the last two endings is that they’ve won both games without their starting quarterback.
I’ve said it before and I’ll repeat it, a win is a win in the NFL. And while it makes sense to be absolutely thrilled that the Cleveland Browns won on Sunday, there are some serious question marks about what’s going on with Kevin Stefanski and Deshaun Watson.
In the first quarter on Sunday Watson was hit hard on a pass attempt and ended up exiting the game. Many suspected a concussion or further issues to his shoulder, but it turns out it was “precautionary” to hold him out by Stefanski. While many disagree with the decision, Stefanski did end speculation after the game stating Watson is the team’s starter.
#Browns Kevin Stefanski says Deshaun Watson will start vs #Seahawks next week pic.twitter.com/DFyXRbeJxz
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) October 22, 2023
Something was off with Watson. In his limited playing time, he was one for five for a total of five yards and one interception. Not to mention the last pass he threw was wildly underthrown and should have been intercepted as well. PJ Walker certainly didn’t light the house on fire with 178 yards passing with a completion percentage under 50, but I’m not sure if the Browns win this game if Watson doesn’t end up leaving.
I’m also not sure that Stefanski didn’t realize that and decided to hold him out just to see what would happen. In the five passes that we saw only one was even close to being on target. He looked to have no zip on the ball and was quickly flustered in the pocket creating his own pressure.
It’s becoming harder to convince oneself that there isn’t an issue between Watson and the organization. When you have your franchise quarterback on a $230 million guaranteed contract, how do you not put him on the field if you get the green light he can go? Did Watson say he wasn’t going back in? Was it truly Stefanski’s call? These are questions that all fans have currently but will likely never get a straight answer to.
The win was great, and the Browns are in a good situation next week when they travel to Seattle, but the division also made the win necessary today. With the Ravens handling the Lions and the Steelers coming away with a victory in L.A., anything but 4-2 would have had the Browns on the outside looking in.
The defense wasn’t as consistent today. They caused a ton of three and outs but also gave up more big plays today than they have all season. but were able to make up for it with turnovers and a defensive touchdown.
But we must continue to monitor this offense. Stefanski deserves a great deal of respect, but he is going to struggle to keep this ship afloat if there really is a riff between Watson and the organization. Winning cures many problems, so let’s hope Watson is healthy enough to start next week and the Browns can stack a third win. If one of those doesn’t happen it’ll just further the rumors and speculation.
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