Who Should I Start? Deshaun Watson or Hendon Hooker

Monday, January 5, 12:55 PM

The Cleveland Browns currently expect quarterback Deshaun Watson (Achilles) to be on the team next year, according to Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN. "I can never predict the future, but right now we do anticipate him being on the 2026 team," general manager Andrew Berry said about Watson's status. Watson tore his right Achilles tendon in October of 2024 and re-ruptured the tendon and required a second surgery on Jan. 9 of 2025. The 30-year-old veteran stayed on the Physically Unable to Perform list all season, but if he can return to full health this year, he's expected to compete for the starting QB job this summer with Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel. Watson will be entering the final year of his five-year, $230 million deal in 2026. He'll be a huge question mark going into next season, but despite the investment the Browns still have in him, he's not guaranteed to win the starting job.

Thursday, August 28, 9:49 AM

The Carolina Panthers came to an agreement with quarterback Hendon Hooker, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. The former Tennessee Volunteer is set to join Carolina's practice squad after being waived by Detroit. The Lions selected Hooker in the third round in 2023, but ultimately moved on this offseason after he lost the backup QB competition against journeyman Kyle Allen. Carolina will start Bryce Young and brought back Andy Dalton, but will slot Hooker into their third QB spot heading into the season.