The Cleveland Browns’ offseason was like no other in team history. That, coupled with the overall crazy nature of the NFL’s offseason, has led to a lot of discussion. The Browns’ takeover of QB Deshaun Watson will be the main theme for some time.
The off-the-field issues surrounding the civil lawsuits have created a negative storm for the team, while resolving these lawsuits in the 2022 season now looks unlikely.
Watson’s talent on the field is impressive. We’ve already seen WR Desean Jackson express an interest in playing with the talented quarterback. Free-Agent DE Jadeveon Clowney noted Watson’s arrival shortly after the quarterback made his decision.
Clowney and Myles Garrett appear to be hinting at a reunion this year as well. Jarvis Landry has also been discussed as a returnee to Cleveland.
According to Albert Breer, neither Clowney nor Landry would have an interest in returning to the Browns if Baker Mayfield was still the team’s quarterback. Breer spoke about Watson’s impact on how players view the team:
“I don’t know if those guys would come back if it was the status quo, but I think the idea of having Deshaun Watson is like … added something when it comes to the Browns’ desirability.”
Not much of a surprise given last season’s struggles, particularly with Landry’s best friend Odell Beckham Jr. Clowney was reportedly dealt with in Cleveland prior to Watson’s arrival.
Having a player who is clearly a top-tier quarterback in the league can have a drastic impact on how free agents view a team. The Browns have that in Watson now and could see Clowney and/or Landry returning because of it.