Browns fans threaten major walkout over $230,000,000 Deshaun Watson decision
After the New York Post reported the return of Cleveland Browns QB Deshaun Watson for the 2025 season, a storm of discontent brewed among Browns fans.
In spite of an underwhelming 3-10 record this NFL season, the team's ownership's decision to keep him led many fans to threaten to walk away from their long-held season tickets, as reported by ML Football:
"TRENDING: Browns fans have been posting on social media that they are canceling their season tickets after reports that Deshaun Watson would be back with the team next season. Cleveland fans have been vehemently adamant about not having Watson on the team next season."
Seeing the post, more fans joined the bandwagon and asked the Browns to cut their loss.
"Cleveland fans just need to throw the white flag," a fan wrote.
Another fan wrote, "Boycotts work ! Don’t let them abuse you Cleveland."
Meanwhile, a third fan wrote, "I can’t blame them, he’s shown he’s not the answer. Why pay for a product that won’t win. And Watson is set for life regardless."
In 2022, after a trade with the Houston Texans, Deshaun Watson signed a $230 million guaranteed contract with the Browns amid over two dozen allegations of sexual misconduct. In the past two years, he has failed to live up to expectations and reclaim the elite form of his Houston Texans days.
On top of that, on Oct. 20, just seven games into the season, he injured his right Achilles while playing against the Cincinnati Bengals, which ended his season prematurely.
Financial constraints exacerbate Deshaun Watson's situation
The gamble of $230 million on Deshaun continues to weigh heavily on the Cleveland Browns. Currently, the team seems trapped with the contract. It is unable to release the QB without incurring $119 million in dead money. Meanwhile, Watson's Achilles injury puts a question mark on his readiness for Week 1 of the next season or even his role as a starter.
Meanwhile, key players such as Nick Chubb, Myles Garrett and Greg Newsome face uncertain futures. The Browns might need to rebuild. For now, they seem focused on keeping things the same even though their choices are hurting fans.