CBS Sports: The Browns identify a potential trade target to take Deshaun Watson’s position as quarterback
Albert Breer claims that the Cleveland Browns are looking to compete for Deshaun Watson’s starting position in the upcoming season.
Regarding the quarterback position, the Cleveland Browns have no clear intentions. At the very least, there have been rumors that they want to compete for Deshaun Watson. It goes without saying that the team would really like Watson to play well for them and heal quickly from his damaged Achilles tendon. But because there is very little chance of that occurring, the club must have a strategy in place to strengthen the quarterback position.
The Browns are thus left with two choices: either choose a quarterback in this year’s draft or locate a capable veteran. The problem with selecting a quarterback in the draft is that this class is seen to be poor. The Browns’ draft position is at best unclear because they are clustered closely with around 10 other clubs. The Browns may be better off pursuing a seasoned quarterback for each of these reasons. These three ideas make a lot of sense for the squad if that is what they decide to do.
Winston Jameis
So far, Jameis Winston is doing a great job replacing Watson. Winston has passed for more than 300 yards in two separate games since he started playing full-time. Additionally, he has defeated the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens, the two primary rivals in the AFC North division.
Winston helps the squad off the field as well. As seen during the game against the New Orleans Saints, where all of his former teammates and coaches made sure to speak with him either before or after the game, Winston excels at building connections with his teammates. Winston’s interviews and pre-game remarks are also making him a fan favorite.
Sam Darnold
This season, Sam Darnold’s career comeback has been an entertaining one to follow. In 2022, Darnold had a terrible season with the Carolina Panthers alongside Baker Mayfield. In 2023, he signed a one-year contract with the San Francisco 49ers, and throughout his few appearances, he showed some promise.
Because of that experience, Darnold was able to persuade the Minnesota Vikings to give him an opportunity to coach and play alongside JJ McCarthy, a first-round selection pick. Due to McCarthy’s injury, Darnold had to start, and he has performed quite well. He has passed for 21 touchdowns to just 10 interceptions while leading the Vikings to a 9–2 start.
It’s unlikely that the Vikings will bring Darnold back. They recently signed Daniel Jones, who, if cleared, might be a fantastic, less expensive alternative to McCarthy. Darnold is young enough and skilled enough to become the Browns’ much-needed franchise quarterback if they can get him.
Garoppolo, Jimmy
Stefanski may have success with a quarterback like Jimmy Garoppolo. He is a seasoned quarterback with offensive leadership expertise. Garoppolo was successful with the 49ers but unsuccessful with the Las Vegas Raiders. Garoppolo’s health will be his biggest problem. At each stage, he has struggled with ailments, which has contributed to his career’s downfall.
Garoppolo is currently spending a year to study under an offensive guru, just as Darnold did. The Browns might benefit from Garoppolo’s potential to learn from Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams. Garoppolo would undoubtedly push Watson and be serviceable even if he won’t be the team’s quarterback.
