The Cleveland Browns hope that Deshaun Watson will start and finish the season as their starting quarterback.
However, if last season taught them something, it is that hope will only get you so far.
Watson has only made 12 appearances for the team since being traded to Cleveland two years ago.
That’s why the fans must be thrilled to know that they just agreed to sign James Winston to a one-year deal.
According to Jordan Schultz of Bleacher Report, Winston’s deal will be worth $8.7 million.
BREAKING: Free agent QB Jameis Winston is close to finalizing a 1-year deal worth up to $8.7M with the #Browns, sources tell @BleacherReport.
Winston fielded interest from multiple teams and decided this morning that he’s going to Cleveland. pic.twitter.com/h7wReAN66T
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 12, 2024
Needless to say, this pretty much puts an end to the chance of Joe Flacco returning to Cleveland, as they also have Dorian Thompson-Robinson under contract.
Then again, the Browns did need four starting quarterbacks last season, so one never knows.
Winston is a former No. 1 pick, and while his career hasn’t turned out the way he or most scouts expected, the arm talent and physical traits are still there.
The Browns need someone who can push Watson to get better and be at his best, and while Winston might not be a legitimate threat to get the starting job at any point in the season, he could definitely help this team get some wins if need be.
Of course, the Browns will hope that Watson will finally be the same guy he was during his days with the Houston Texans.
But if that’s not the case or if he gets hurt again, they have one of the best backups in the game.
NEXT: Jameis Winston Is Reportedly Drawing Interest From AFC North Team