Deshaun Watson: Where is playing| Suspension| Spotrac| Updates

Deshaun Watson: Where Is He Playing, Suspension Details, Spotrac Contract & Latest Updates

Deshaun Watson has been one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in the NFL over the past few seasons. From his stellar performances with the Houston Texans to the controversies surrounding his suspension and his transition to the Cleveland Browns, Watson’s career has been both triumphant and tumultuous.

In this comprehensive article, we explore where Deshaun Watson is playing now, dig into the details of his suspension, examine his contract breakdown from Spotrac, and provide all the latest updates on his career.

Where Is Deshaun Watson Playing Now?

As of the 2025 NFL season, Deshaun Watson is the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns. He was traded from the Houston Texans to the Browns in March 2022. The move was a blockbuster, not only because of the talent Watson brought but also due to the size and structure of the contract he received.

Watson did not play the entire 2021 season with the Texans due to legal issues and a trade request. However, once he joined the Browns, Cleveland quickly named him their franchise quarterback.

Performance with the Cleveland Browns

Since joining the Browns, Watson has had a mixed performance. In the 2022 season, he was suspended for part of the year (more on that below), which disrupted his momentum. However, when on the field, he’s shown glimpses of the elite quarterback he was in Houston.

2023 and 2024 seasons were crucial for Watson and the Browns. While injuries hampered his full availability, his presence lifted the offense, showing chemistry with key targets like Amari Cooper and David Njoku.

In 2025, Watson is expected to enter the season fully healthy, with a stronger offensive line and better overall support from the Browns’ roster.

Deshaun Watson’s Suspension: What Happened?

Deshaun Watson was suspended following a series of allegations of sexual misconduct made by over 20 women. The civil suits and subsequent NFL investigation drew national attention.

Timeline of Events

• March 2021: First lawsuits filed against Watson while he was still with the Houston Texans.

• March 2022: Watson traded to the Cleveland Browns, even as legal proceedings continued.

• August 2022: NFL announced an 11-game suspension and a $5 million fine as part of a settlement agreement.

• Watson’s Response: Watson maintained his innocence but accepted the suspension, stating he wanted to move forward with his career.

Impact of the Suspension

Watson missed the first 11 games of the 2022 season, returning in Week 13. His return was closely watched, both from a performance and media standpoint. While he showed some rust, Watson gradually began adjusting to the Browns’ system.

The suspension also sparked debates within the NFL community, with many questioning the league’s handling of similar cases and comparing it to other disciplinary actions.

Deshaun Watson Spotrac Contract Breakdown

One of the most significant aspects of Deshaun Watson’s transition to Cleveland was the record-breaking contract he signed. According to Spotrac, a trusted source for professional sports contracts and salaries, Watson’s deal is both historic and controversial.

Contract Details

• Team: Cleveland Browns

• Contract Value: $230 million

• Duration: 5 years (2022–2026)

• Fully Guaranteed: Yes

• Average Annual Salary: $46 million

This contract made Watson the first NFL player to receive a fully guaranteed deal of over $200 million. The Browns structured the contract so that Watson’s first-year salary was just $1 million, minimizing the financial impact of his 2022 suspension.

Year-by-Year Salary Cap Hit

Controversies Around the Deal

Many NFL insiders criticized the Browns for giving a fully guaranteed deal to a player with unresolved legal issues. It set a new precedent in quarterback contracts, influencing negotiations for players like Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow.

Latest Updates on Deshaun Watson (2025)

Injury Concerns

During the 2023 and 2024 seasons, Deshaun Watson dealt with shoulder and elbow injuries, which limited his playing time. While none of the injuries were career-threatening, they raised concerns about his long-term durability.

In 2025, Watson enters training camp fully cleared for contact, and early reports suggest he’s throwing with improved velocity and accuracy.

Browns’ 2025 Offensive Outlook

With Nick Chubb returning from injury and new acquisitions at wide receiver, the Browns are building a potent offense around Watson. The team also signed offensive line reinforcements to give Watson more time in the pocket.

Key offensive weapons:

• Nick Chubb (RB) – Power back with elite vision

• Amari Cooper (WR) – WR1 with route-running precision

• David Njoku (TE) – Athletic tight end with big-play capability

• Elijah Moore (WR) – Speedster and slot option

Coaching & System

Head Coach Kevin Stefanski continues to call plays, building a system that allows Watson to use his legs while thriving in play-action. The Browns are shifting toward a pass-first, RPO-heavy offense tailored to Watson’s strengths.

Career Highlights & Stats

Despite his controversies, Deshaun Watson has been a highly productive quarterback:

Career Stats (as of 2024 season end)

• Games Played: 67

• Passing Yards: 17,243

• Touchdowns: 123

• Interceptions: 35

• Completion %: 67.5%

• Passer Rating: 102.3

• Rushing Yards: 1,822

• Rushing TDs: 19

His ability to extend plays, combined with elite downfield vision, makes him one of the most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks in the league.

Fan Reaction & Public Image

Public opinion around Watson remains divided.

Supporters’ Viewpoint

Many Browns fans have embraced Watson, especially as he begins showing leadership on and off the field. His work with local charities and youth camps has helped him rebuild his image in Cleveland.

Critics’ Concerns

However, critics continue to question his character due to the legal cases. Despite settling most of the civil suits, Watson’s reputation took a significant hit that may never fully heal in the public eye.

Fantasy Football Outlook for 2025

Deshaun Watson is projected to be a top-10 fantasy quarterback in 2025 drafts, especially in leagues that reward rushing yards.

Pros:

• High passing volume

• Dual-threat capabilities

• Improved supporting cast

Cons:

• Injury risk

• Coaching volatility

• Off-field distractions could resurface

Fantasy managers should consider drafting Watson in Rounds 5–7, depending on league format.

Watson vs. AFC North Rivals

The AFC North is loaded with talent at quarterback:

Watson’s performance in these divisional matchups could define the Browns’ playoff hopes. Deshaun Watson updates.

What’s Next for Deshaun Watson?

As Watson enters his third active season with the Browns, he faces intense scrutiny. With a fully guaranteed contract, playoff expectations, and a powerful offense, 2025 is a make-or-break year.

Key goals for Watson in 2025:

• Stay healthy for a full season

• Lead the Browns to an AFC North title

• Silence critics with performance, not PR

• Re-establish himself as a top-5 quarterback

Conclusion

Deshaun Watson’s journey in the NFL has been anything but linear. From his rise as a Clemson star to his fall from grace amidst serious allegations, and now his attempt at redemption with the Cleveland Browns, Watson continues to be a polarizing figure.

Whether he ultimately becomes the savior of the Browns franchise or remains an example of unmet potential will depend largely on his 2025 season performance. For now, the spotlight remains firmly on Deshaun Watson — both on and off the field.