Deshaun Watson turns focus on blocking out "bullsh**" after controversial NFL seasons
Deshaun Watson has been hounded by controversy ever since he became a Cleveland Brown in 2022. His record-breaking, fully-guaranteed contract was immediately decried as an albatross, and that was before he was suspended 11 games concerning his sexual misconduct in Texas.
He eventually made his team debut in December 2022, but there has been more disappointment since then. He injured his shoulder during a 2023 win at the Baltimore Ravens and had to undergo season-ending surgery.
Watson is determined to play through all the negativity surrounding him. He told reporters on Friday:
"Honestly it’s really just blocking out all the bulls---. It was tough coming in two years [ago] — different environment, different team, different all that... My character was getting challenged. And like I said, I know who I am, and a lot of people never really knew my history or knew who I really was so they’re going based off of other people’s opinions."
He concluded with this explicit warning:
“I could give two f---s what other people say, to be honest.”
Browns HC Kevin Stefanski gives update on Deshaun Watson's recovery
Is Deshaun Watson healthy enough to play?
That question has been looming over many fans' minds throught the offseason, but Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski is optimistic about his quarterback's recovery. He said:
"He's been diligent about his rehab. He's worked very hard to put himself in position where he is right this minute. All eyes are on him... so it's been a big offseason of making sure his body's right. And certainly, his mind is right."
However, will Watson play in the preseason to get himself back in competitive shape? Stefanski was less certain, saying:
"I think you always have to look at every decision and what's in the best interest of the club and the best interest of the player. We have some time before we make that decision. I've done it a bunch of different ways for different players over the years and really the whole goal is to get ready for the season and beyond."
The Browns begin their preseason against the Minnesota Vikings on August 10. They begin their regular season against the Dallas Cowboys on September 8.