Browns Seek Veteran QB Replacement Following Watson Injury, Minshew Available

The Cleveland Browns are actively seeking a replacement for quarterback Deshaun Watson, who will miss the entire 2025 season due to injury. They have restructured his contract for salary cap relief, enabling them to pursue a veteran quarterback in free agency, with Kirk Cousins and Sam Darnold as the top options. Meanwhile, Gardner Minshew is set to be released by the Las Vegas Raiders, presenting the Browns with a potential backup option. Minshew struggled last season with the Raiders but has previous success as a starter, making him a viable candidate for the Browns' revamped quarterback room. The team's draft strategy is also under consideration, as they hold the No. 2 pick but may benefit from waiting for a better quarterback class in 2026. Overall, the Browns face an urgent need to solidify their quarterback situation ahead of the upcoming season.