Cleveland Browns Quarterbacks: A History of Instability
From Tim Couch to Baker Mayfield: A Quarterback Carousel
The Cleveland Browns have struggled to find stability at the quarterback position for decades. Since 1999, the team has had 38 different starting quarterbacks, with only three seasons (2001 with Tim Couch, 2019 and 2020 with Baker Mayfield) where the same player started every game.
This revolving door at the quarterback position has been a major factor in the Browns' inability to achieve sustained success. The team has only made the playoffs twice in the last 25 years, and has not won a playoff game since 1994.
Deshaun Watson's Arrival
The Browns' hopes for quarterback stability were reignited in 2022 with the acquisition of Deshaun Watson from the Houston Texans. Watson, a three-time Pro Bowler, was seen as the missing piece that the Browns needed to contend for a Super Bowl.
However, Watson's first season in Cleveland was cut short by an 11-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. Watson returned to the lineup in Week 13 and started seven games, but he struggled to recapture his former form and the Browns finished with a disappointing 7-10 record.
Watson's Return in 2024
Watson underwent shoulder surgery in December 2023, which ended his season prematurely. However, he has expressed confidence that he will be ready for the start of the 2024 season.
If Watson can return to his Pro Bowl form, he could provide the stability that the Browns have been searching for at the quarterback position. However, it remains to be seen whether Watson can overcome his off-field issues and become the long-term solution for the Browns.
Other Quarterback News
- Jameis Winston is finalizing a one-year deal with the Browns with a base value of $4 million guaranteed and a max value of $8.7 million.
- Joe Flacco was named the Browns' starting quarterback for the remainder of the 2023 season after a strong performance in a win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
- Joshua Dobbs is expected to start at quarterback for the Browns in their Week 17 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
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