Cleveland Browns’ newly appointed offensive coordinator, Ken Dorsey, expressed strong confidence in quarterback Deshaun Watson during his introductory press conference. Dorsey lauded Watson as “one of the premier quarterbacks in this league,” and a “really quality human being,” according to JPA Football. This endorsement comes as the Browns hope to see a significant return on their investment in Watson.
Dorsey, who previously orchestrated the Buffalo Bills’ offense for two years, inherits a Browns team that has yet to fully realize Watson’s potential. Cleveland made a substantial commitment to Watson in March 2022, acquiring him in a high-profile trade with the Houston Texans and subsequently awarding him a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract.
However, Watson’s tenure in Cleveland has been hampered by off-field issues and injuries. An 11-game suspension stemming from sexual misconduct allegations limited him to just six games in his first season with the Browns. In those appearances, he recorded 1,102 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and five interceptions, completing 58.2 percent of his passes for a passer rating of 79.1.
The following season, a shoulder injury sidelined Watson for another six games, necessitating surgery. Despite the setback, his statistical output remained similar to the previous year: 1,115 passing yards, seven touchdowns, four interceptions, a 61.4 completion percentage, and an 84.3 passer rating. Over his 12 starts for Cleveland, Watson has compiled an 8-4 record.
Prior to joining the Browns, Watson spent five seasons with the Texans, earning three Pro Bowl selections in his first three years. He did not play in the 2021 season. The Browns finished the 2023 season with an 11-6 record, ultimately losing to the Houston Texans in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs. Dorsey’s arrival and his belief in Watson’s abilities signal a renewed focus on offensive success in Cleveland for the upcoming season.
