The video begins by highlighting the current situation regarding Deshaun Watson, labeling his contract as potentially the worst in football history. Watson, once one of the most promising quarterbacks, now has a $73 million cap hit over the next two seasons and ranks at the bottom of nearly every major statistical category. The video maker humorously mentions how he limits himself to only making one or two videos per month about how poorly Watson has been performing. The Cleveland Browns are now stuck with a quarterback who is drastically underperforming, and there is little they can do to change the situation.
Reflecting on Watson’s past, the creator expresses disappointment, recalling how he was a standout quarterback in college at Clemson and how his early NFL career showed tremendous potential. Drafted 12th overall by the Houston Texans in 2017, Watson was initially praised as the “Michael Jordan of football” by his college coach, Dabo Swinney. His rookie season, although cut short, hinted at greatness, and he followed that with several strong seasons, even earning the Texans playoff berths. In 2020, despite a struggling Texans team, Watson posted career-best numbers, throwing for over 4,800 yards and 33 touchdowns, while completing 70% of his passes. However, following a 4-12 season, Watson requested a trade due to dissatisfaction with the team’s direction.
Shortly after, Watson’s career took a dramatic turn as he faced numerous allegations of sexual misconduct, leading to a lengthy legal battle and suspension. Despite these issues, the Cleveland Browns made a highly controversial decision to trade for Watson in 2022, offering him an unprecedented fully guaranteed $230 million contract, the largest of its kind in NFL history. Initially, Watson didn’t seem interested in Cleveland, but they ultimately made an offer he couldn’t refuse. Other teams such as the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints, and Carolina Panthers were also contenders for Watson’s services.
As the video progresses, the speaker touches on Watson’s prior years with the Texans, highlighting key moments, including the Texans’ aggressive trades to build around him, his significant performance under pressure despite being frequently sacked, and the Texans’ perplexing decision to trade star wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Despite all the turmoil, Watson’s talent seemed undeniable.
However, his career trajectory has sharply declined after joining the Browns, and his current state is a far cry from the player he once was. The video creator laments Watson’s downfall, both on and off the field, reflecting on how his once-promising future has deteriorated into what is now seen as a disastrous contract that leaves the Browns in a difficult position. Watson’s fall from grace stands out as a major storyline in NFL history, affecting both his legacy and the trajectory of the teams involved.
