Following the Cleveland Browns' Monday night loss to the Denver Broncos, dropping their record to 3-9, questions surrounding the team's quarterback situation continue to swirl. While the Browns' season appears to be lost in terms of playoff hopes, commentator Troy Aikman highlighted Jameis Winston's recent performances, prompting discussion about whether he should have been starting from the beginning.
Aikman commended Browns coach Kevin Stefanski's abilities, referencing his past successes despite challenging circumstances. However, he pointed to Deshaun Watson's performance and contract as a significant obstacle for the team. Aikman speculated whether the Browns' season might have unfolded differently had Winston been the starting quarterback from the outset, suggesting the team's offensive struggles may have negatively impacted their defense.
Winston's statistics since taking over offer a compelling argument. In five starts, he's thrown for 1,680 yards, 10 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, leading the Browns to a 2-3 record. This contrasts with Watson's 1-6 record before his season-ending Achilles injury, during which he threw for 1,148 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions while being sacked 33 times.
The Browns now face a difficult decision regarding their quarterback position. Watson's substantial contract keeps him with the team until 2027, but his performance and off-field issues raise questions about his future in Cleveland. As the season winds down, the Browns will undoubtedly evaluate Winston's performance closely, considering whether he offers a more viable path forward than Watson.
The team's remaining games, beginning with a rematch against the Steelers, will be crucial in determining the direction they take at quarterback.
