Cleveland Browns Deshaun Watson Mentors Quarterbacks Sanders, Gabriel

The Cleveland Browns face a quarterback dilemma with starter Deshaun Watson sidelined by a torn Achilles injury, prompting a competitive quarterback battle among veterans Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Despite his injury and recent off-field controversies, Watson has taken an active mentorship role, particularly guiding Sanders, the son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, to accelerate his development and help him navigate the complexities of the NFL. This mentorship is partly seen as reciprocation for Deion Sanders' public support of Watson during his injury struggles, fostering a unique bond between the two quarterbacks. Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has called acquiring Watson a "big swing and a miss," reflecting skepticism about Watson's impact amid his tumultuous tenure and ongoing recovery. While some fans and analysts appreciate Watson’s experience and leadership as beneficial for Sanders, others worry that Watson’s off-field issues could negatively influence the young quarterback. As training camp approaches, the Browns and their supporters watch closely to see whether this unconventional partnership will translate into on-field success or distraction.