Cleveland’s in a tailspin, and the QB conundrum’s heating up pretty bad! As the team deals with its 20-16 loss to Philly, questions are swirling about Deshaun Watson’s future. Will HC Kevin Stefanski stick to his guns, or pull the trigger on a change?

NFL writer Zac Jackson posed the question: “Stefanski asked why not try Jameis?” In a post-game press conference, Stefanski was firm in his decision—he wants to keep Watson as the starter. He stated, “It’s important we do everything we can to play good, sound football. I think Deshaun gives us the best chance to win, continues to give us the best chance to win.” This proclamation comes hot on the heels after Watson’s doomy-gloomy performance—16 of 23 passes for 168 yds, no TDs, and no interceptions. 

As the season trudges along, the Browns sit at a dismal 1-5 record. The fans are restless, with many calling for Jameis Winston to take the reins instead of Watson. But Stefanski’s commitment to the 29-year-old seems more than a matter of loyalty; it’s a gamble. Making a switch at this point could send the wrong message. Bench Deshaun Watson now, and the Browns are locked into a decision they can’t easily reverse. The team ain’t ready to go down that road just yet, folks.

This past Sunday, Cleveland’s offense had a tough time hitting paydirt—scoring just one TD from a 50-yard blocked field goal return by Rodney McLeod Jr. They mustered only 244 total yards and 14 first downs. Even with time of possession in their favor, those drives couldn’t be turned into points. 

Watson hasn’t lived up to the hype—and there are a lot of reasons to back that up.

Deshaun Watson and the Browns stuck in a loop of despair 

Cleveland’s like that roller coaster you regret getting on—full of ups and downs, but mostly downs. After yet another rough outing, fans are wondering: How did we end up here with Deshaun Watson? 

1. Defense in disarray

First off, let’s talk defense. The Browns rank a piteous 31st in the league. Opponents are treating their offense like a buffet—feasting on Cleveland’s defensive missteps and racking up points like they’re playing Madden (literally!)

2. Watson’s total QBR

If QBR were a basement, Watson would have the keys. Sitting at a cringe-worthy 21.5, he’s dead last among QBs. Will Levis, at 28.3, is practically looking down at him from a penthouse suite. Ouch.

3. Cumulative EPA

And the hits just keep coming! Watson’s cumulative expected points added (EPA) also puts him at the bottom. At this rate, he’s more likely to add points to the opposing team than his own.

4. Rate metrics

Let’s break it down: 565th in yards per attempt (5.1), 565th in yards per dropback (3.9), and 566th in first-down rate (22.1%). That ain’t just bad; it’s like trying to score a TD with a potato as your football.

5. Sack attack

Sacked 12.4% of the time? You guessed it—he owns the highest sack rate in the league. He’s hit the ground harder than a QB in a WWE match—with 31 sacks on the season.

6. Where are the targets?

Watson’s deep ball? More like a deep miss. Eleven of his 17 deep throws have been deemed off-target, with some going so far out of bounds that they might as well be in the stands. Talk about missing the mark!

7. Missing core strength

Remember when Deshaun Watson dazzled us with RPOs and quick reads? Yeah, well, that’s a distant memory. He’s lacking the core strength to read defenses, leaving him more confused than a cat in a dog park.

8. Inconsistent consistency

This offense’s hit the snooze button on scoring. With zero games over 20 points or 200 passing yards, they’re about as exciting as watching paint dry. Ranked 30th in points per game (15.8), they’ve become the poster children for mediocrity.

9. The Joe Flacco dilemma

If Watson gets benched, what’s the backup plan? PJ Walker and company are about as reliable as a flip phone in 2024. The dilemma here is that even if Watson’s not the guy, the alternatives don’t inspire confidence.

10. Stats that make you go “Yikes!”

A league-worst 19.5 yards per possession? Yeah, that’s right. With just one pitiful red zone trip last game, they’re tied for the fewest red zone possessions. They might as well set up camp at the 20 and call it a day!

As the Browns gear up for a must-win clash against the Bengals in Week 7, they need to figure stuff out real fast. This ride’s getting wild, and not in a good way!