Super Bowl or bust mentality likely gone, extending Jameis Winston to compete with Deshaun Watson is possible
The Cleveland Browns victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday Night Football was exhilarating for their fans. Not just because of the snow game excitement but also because of beating their AFC North rivals and keeping their very tiny playoff hopes alive.
Browns fans, in general, are realistic, however. The focus really is on the upcoming NFL draft and what the team does at the quarterback position. Most believe that QB Shedeur Sanders and teammate Travis Hunter are the top two options in the draft but neither are likely heading to Cleveland after the Week 12 victory.
QB Jameis Winston has continued his rollercoaster career while the Browns starter but has three good games to one (against the Chargers) bad game.
With the details of QB Deshaun Watson’s contract well known, it seems all but certain that he will be on the roster next season. Unlike the last couple of years, according to Albert Breer, this offseason won’t be about building around or building up Watson but instead about what is best for the team which could include Winston:
From TNF Tonight—Where the @Browns are headed from here. pic.twitter.com/juSF67gAFC
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) November 22, 2024
While many Cleveland fans will be frustrated that the goal was focused on Watson last offseason, it makes sense. They were contractually invested in him and, given his Houston time, Watson gave them the best chance for a Super Bowl opportunity.
Now, heading into 2025, the Browns have seen enough from Watson to know he is no longer to be counted on, coddled or planned for. Instead, a veteran (there are 10 starters set to hit the free agent market) will be given a chance to win the job.
Whether or not Winston is willing to return to compete with Watson or finds a bigger contract and better opportunity elsewhere will be a huge story this offseason. If Cleveland’s decision-makers want Winston to return for sure, extension negotiations for their current starter should be ongoing as the season comes to an end.
Starting with Dak Prescott at the top and ending with Baker Mayfield, there are 18 quarterbacks making $30 million or more a year. Geno Smith is next at $25 million with Gardner Minshew ($12.5) and Sam Darnold ($10) the only other double-digit a-year quarterbacks. Where might Winston fit into that group after signing for $4 million this year?
The Browns planned approach at quarterback is the most logical one. Will they just run it back with Watson and Winston battling it out in training camp and Dorian Thompson-Robinson as the young backup or will we see a new competitor for Watson this offseason? Only time will tell.
Assuming Watson’s contract locks him into being on the team, who do you think the other two QBs should be next year?