Before Deshaun Watson makes his decision and social media turns into everything college basketball, I have a few things to get off my chest.
Whose idea was this? This was an organizational decision. Owner Jimmy Haslam didn’t demand GM Andrew Berry trade for Watson. That’s not how this front office works, and Haslam has let them make all the football decisions. Did he approve the trade? Yes, he’s the owner as is Dee Haslam. Chief strategy officer Paul DePodesta also had to approve this trade as did head coach Kevin Stefanski. Over the last two years, the Browns front office has worked together to improve the roster. Do I agree the Browns should trade for Watson? Oh hell no. Too much baggage. I don’t like his alleged behavior, not one bit. I know we’re a country of forgiveness and second chances, but this one is too hard to handle. But if he’s the QB, I’ll still root for the Browns. I’m too invested.
As for the other crap that’s on social media. Stop. I have no problem with Baker Mayfield posting a thank you to the fans. It seems like most people post their feelings on social media. Doesn’t make him soft. Calling him soft creates clicks. Did the Browns give Mayfield a heads up about pursuing Watson? Of course they did. This front office is too smart to not give him a heads up. They cross every “T” and dot every “I”. This one drives me crazy, “Andrew Berry and Kevin Stefanski lied to the media about Baker Mayfield being the starter in 2022.” No, they didn’t. Why would they broadcast to the NFL world their plans? Head coach Kevin Stefanski when asked if there would be changes in the QB room in reference to QB Case Keenum said there could be structural changes before the season starts. Rumors of the trade proposal to Houston. Everyone’s educated guess for clicks. Three first round picks and two prominent players? Doesn’t sound like an Andrew Berry type trade. He just traded for a top ten wide receiver for basically a fifth-round pick.
All I can go on is how this front office has performed the last two years. I fully believe the Browns were either going to find a replacement for Mayfield in 2022 or 2023. Their history is keeping players they want by signing players to extensions before their last season. Myles Garrett, Kareem Hunt, Nick Chubb, Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller. David Njoku is a special case. He demanded a trade and changed his mind and his agent. Hopefully they extend Denzel Ward before training camp.
What’s the plan moving forward? If Watson chooses another team, and I hope he does, the front office has a plan B, a plan C, a plan D and probably a plan E. Also, after all this, the door still hasn’t shut on Mayfield being the starter this year. It would take some incredible gymnastics by both sides but there is a small chance. I’m not a “Baker Bro” or a “Baker hater.” I’m a Browns fan. I just hope Watson makes up his mind today, I would like to go back to enjoying free agency again. Everyone stay safe and Go Browns.