Deshaun Watson states his affection for Cleveland ahead of 2027 return
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 2, 2026, 1:18 AM
Last updated Aug 2, 2026
Deshaun Watson expressed his affection for Cleveland, countering perceptions of discontent during a media session. Watson cited his positive experiences in the city, including frequent visits to local restaurants and shared time with his family. Owner Jimmy Haslam indicated that a return in 2027 is possible, contingent on Watson securing the starting job and maintaining performance. The lingering narrative of Watson's disinterest in Cleveland dates back to his initial rejection of the team four years ago, despite accepting a fully guaranteed contract shortly afterward.
- •Watson rejected Cleveland initially in 2022 but later signed a fully guaranteed contract.
- •He emphasized enjoying life in Cleveland and visiting local areas regularly.
- •Haslam kept the door open for Watson's potential return in 2027.
- •Watson needs to win the starting job and perform well to secure his future.
- 1:18 AMNBCSports.com — Deshaun Watson doesn’t know why people think he doesn’t like Cleveland - NBC Sports
- 12:56 AMYahoo Sports — Deshaun Watson doesn't know why people think he doesn't like Cleveland
"Four years ago, when the Browns, Panthers, Falcons, and Saints entered a four-way competition for quarterback Deshaun Watson, Cleveland was the first team to which Watson said, "No thanks."
"Four years ago, when the Browns, Panthers, Falcons, and Saints entered a four-way competition for quarterback Deshaun Watson, Cleveland was the first team to which Watson said, "No thanks."
Sources
External links- NBCSports.comAug 2, 2026, 1:18 AMDeshaun Watson doesn’t know why people think he doesn’t like Cleveland - NBC Sports
Four years ago, when the Browns, Panthers, Falcons, and Saints entered a four-way competition for quarterback Deshaun Watson, Cleveland was the first team to which Watson said, "No thanks."
- Yahoo SportsAug 2, 2026, 12:56 AMDeshaun Watson doesn't know why people think he doesn't like Cleveland
Four years ago, when the Browns, Panthers, Falcons, and Saints entered a four-way competition for quarterback Deshaun Watson, Cleveland was the first team to which Watson said, "No thanks."
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