Who Should I Start? Jameis Winston or Deshaun Watson

Wednesday, December 25, 9:10 PM

Cleveland Browns quarterbacks Dorian Thompson-Robinson (calf) and Jameis Winston (right shoulder) were limited participants during practice on Wednesday. The Browns' quarterback problems have been no secret this year, and it now appears that a pair of injuries have further complicated the situation. Thompson-Robinson earned his first start of the season last week, completing 20 of 34 pass attempts for 157 yards, zero touchdowns, and two interceptions. He also rushed for 32 yards. Most of his positive momentum came in garbage time, as the 25-year-old didn't inspire much confidence in his playing ability and the Browns' overall offensive performance. Still, it appears he remains the preferred option for the job over Winston, who tossed eight interceptions over his final three games under center. Injuries could certainly impact the starting quarterback decision for Week 17 against the Miami Dolphins, but assuming both are healthy, Thompson-Robinson will likely be named the team's primary quarterback for the second week in a row. We can't rule out snaps for Bailey Zappe, either. The 25-year-old Western Kentucky product was active as Thompson-Robinson's backup last week since Winston was inactive as the emergency third quarterback. None of these players have legitimate fantasy appeal long-term.

Saturday, December 14, 12:27 PM

Despite being 3-10 heading into a Week 15 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Cleveland Browns expect quarterback Deshaun Watson (Achilles), reigning NFL Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry to return in 2025, according to sources. Watson's role, however, is up in the air with the Browns moving forward after he suffered a season-ending Achilles tear midseason. Cleveland traded three first-round picks to the Texans to acquire Watson in 2022 and then signed him to a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract. Since joining the team, he has played in just 19 games and has posted a weak 80.7 passer rating when on the field. A post-June 1 release of Watson would create around $119 million in dead money, which would be the most in NFL history. The Browns are stuck with Watson for now, and he'll be off the fantasy radar coming off his serious injury in 2025.