Deshaun Watson Visits Panthers Training Amid Quarterback Uncertainty

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Deshaun Watson, the Cleveland Browns quarterback, made an appearance at the Panthers’ practice facility Wednesday morning amidst a backdrop of quarterback uncertainty for both teams. As players from the Carolina Panthers and Cleveland Browns stretched and prepared for a joint practice, Watson was spotted wearing Browns-issued rain gear, accompanied by a member of the team’s training staff.

Had the negotiations in 2022 unfolded differently, Watson could have been practicing with the Panthers. The franchise was one of the four finalists vying for him during a controversial bidding process hampered by allegations of sexual misconduct against Watson, who was then with the Houston Texans. Panthers owner David Tepper ultimately decided against guaranteeing Watson’s ambitious, $230 million contract, which led to his trade to Cleveland.

Since joining the Browns, Watson has played only 19 of 51 games due to ongoing injuries and the fallout from the allegations. Following his departure, the Panthers have seen significant turnover in coaching and quarterback positions, cycling through three head coaches while establishing a new direction with second-year coach Dave Canales and rookie quarterback Bryce Young, selected first overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.

The Browns, meanwhile, have struggled with quarterback stability. Over the past two years, seven players have taken snaps at the position, but with Watson recovering from a second Achilles surgery earlier this year, the team continues to search for a starting solution. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam acknowledged the missteps in securing Watson, stating, “We took a big swing and miss with Deshaun.”

Despite the past, the Panthers actively sought Watson with hopes that his connection to Clemson would boost operations and resonate well with local fans. As discussions progressed, several high-profile team officials exited the organization, leaving behind differing opinions on the vetting process of Watson.

According to sources, Tepper had conversations with Clemson’s head coach Dabo Swinney about the potential acquisition and weighed significant financial guarantees that ultimately influenced his decision to withdraw from negotiations.

While interest in Watson increased after a Houston grand jury opted not to indict him in March 2022, the Panthers shifted focus when the contract demands escalated beyond their comfort level. “Dave wanted him. Dave just didn’t want to guarantee a bunch of money,” said a former team executive.

After finishing last season with a particularly rocky start due to injuries, Young has shown signs of promise, completing successful passes during Wednesday’s practice. Watson, sidelined due to ongoing recovery, watched from the sidelines, marking his first attendance at a Browns practice this season after two consecutive years on injured reserve.

The Browns’ uncertain quarterback landscape continues amid their efforts to find stability, with Watson’s contract hanging heavy on the organization’s future plans. With his contract running through 2029 and a projected cap hit of $80.7 million in 2026, the pressure for both player and team remains high.