Browns Coach Sends Strong Message on Deshaun Watson’s Role With QBs
Deshaun Watson has not sniffed the field this year, and may never put on a Cleveland Browns uniform ever again. But he is having an impact on their offense and rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel, specifically.
Browns offensive coordinator Tommy Rees opened up about Watson’s impact on Gabriel’s development through his first NFL season, including his first NFL win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
Watson, of course, reinjured his Achilles tendon in January, which prompted the Browns to overhaul their quarterbacks room. Watson has been pushing to make a return, yet Gabriel has played well since taking over for Joe Flacco after the 40-year-old was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Deshaun Watson’s Relationship With Dillon Gabriel Has ‘Really Been Positive’
Watson may not seem like an ideal mentor for a 24-year-old based on his catastrophic fall from grace. But according to Rees, Watson’s presence has been beneficial on the first-time NFL starter.
“He goes out of his way to help him talk through some coverages, talk through things like that,” Rees said.
Whatever you want to say about Watson’s controversial, injury-marred tenure with the Browns, Watson sure could play the quarterback position when healthy. He made the Pro Bowl three times as a member of the Houston Texans before they traded him to Cleveland for three first-round picks.
Plus, whatever Gabriel has gotten from Watson has worked. Gabriel has not yet thrown an interception in three starts, tossing three touchdowns while completing 72.2 percent of his 18 passes against the Dolphins in the rain Sunday.
Plus, whatever Rees is seeing has been backed up by coach Kevin Stefanski.
“He’s doing a great job at rehabbing, good job in meetings,” Stefanski said last week of Watson.
Deshaun Watson Is Unlikely To Play This Year — and May Never Suit Up For The Browns Again
This is the fourth of Watson’s fully guaranteed five-year, $235 million contract, which means fans who have been counting down the days until his contract expires are getting closer to freedom.
The Browns will owe Watson an appalling $80 million-plus in dead money if they release him after June 1, according to Over The Cap. Yet, if they also release him after June 1, that dead cap hit will be spread over his void years.
But with Gabriel on an entry-level contract of a third-round pick, plus Shedeur Sanders backing him up and Myles Garrett locked into a huge deal, the Browns could swing that deal to rid themselves of Watson’s stench — particularly since his contract is untradeable.
Or the Browns could decide simply to suck up Watson as the highest-paid backup quarterback in NFL history — even more so than Kirk Cousins with the Atlanta Falcons this year — then be rid of the Watson mistake rather than compounding it through the rest of the 2027 season.
Watson has only thrown for 3,365 yards, 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions and 465 rushing yards and three scores in a Browns uniform. What’s worse is he’s only played 19 games for the Browns, mainly due to injuries and an 11-game suspension in 2022 for violating the NFL’s personal-conduct policy.
Houston’s Keys to Victory: Pressure Mayfield, Protect Stroud, Unleash Collins
After a disappointing Week 1 loss, the Houston Texans are gearing up for a crucial Monday Night Football showdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. With playoff aspirations still intact, this game offers a chance to reset the tone of the season. To do so, the Texans must execute on four critical fronts: unleashing Nico Collins, protecting quarterback C.J. Stroud, exploiting Tampa Bay’s offensive line injuries, and locking down the Buccaneers’ aerial attack.
Nico Collins Must Take Over
Houston’s offense lacked rhythm in Week 1, and wide receiver Nico Collins was largely absent from the stat sheet. With running back Joe Mixon and wideout Christian Kirk potentially sidelined, the Texans need Collins to emerge as the focal point of their passing game. Quarterback C.J. Stroud will rely on him during third downs and deep shots, especially as defenses tighten coverage on secondary options. Collins’ ability to stretch the field and win contested catches could be the spark that reignites Houston’s offensive identity.
Protecting C.J. Stroud Is Non-Negotiable
Stroud’s Week 1 performance was marred by relentless pressure, including three sacks and a staggering 40% pressure rate. The offensive line, already dealing with injuries, faces another tough test against Tampa Bay’s defensive front led by Vita Vea. For the Texans to find offensive rhythm, they must give Stroud time to operate. That means cleaner pocket protection, quicker route development, and smarter pre-snap reads. If Stroud is constantly under duress, turnovers and stalled drives will follow.
Capitalize on Tampa’s Line Vulnerability
The Buccaneers will be without star left tackle Tristan Wirfs, opening a window for Houston’s pass rush to dominate. Edge rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter are primed to wreak havoc, especially if they can isolate backup linemen in one-on-one situations. Disrupting Baker Mayfield’s timing and forcing hurried decisions could lead to sacks, fumbles, and interceptions. This matchup is Houston’s best chance to control the tempo defensively and flip field position in their favor.
Shut Down the Buccaneers’ Passing Game
Tampa Bay boasts a dangerous receiving duo in veteran Mike Evans and rookie standout Emeka Egbuka. Houston’s secondary, led by Derek Stingley Jr. and C.J. Gardner-Johnson, must bounce back from a shaky opener. That means tighter coverage, disciplined zone rotations, and minimizing explosive plays. If the Texans can neutralize Tampa’s vertical threats, they’ll force the Bucs into a more predictable, run-heavy approach—one that favors Houston’s defensive strengths.
Dalton Schultz aims for precision as Texans prepare for Monday night clash against Buccaneers
As the Houston Texans gear up for their highly anticipated home opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night, veteran tight end Dalton Schultz is emphasizing the importance of a disciplined performance.
Schultz, known for his reliable hands and keen understanding of the game, stated that his objective is to “play clean” as the team looks to secure a strong start to the season. The Texans, under the leadership of their coaching staff, are keen on establishing a solid foundation early in the year, and Schultz’s role will be pivotal in that effort.
In a league where every small error can be magnified, Schultz recognizes the significance of minimizing mistakes. “Every play counts,” he expressed, underscoring the need for precision in execution. The tight end’s experience will be crucial in guiding younger teammates and ensuring that the offense operates smoothly against a formidable Bucs defense.
With the Texans aiming to build momentum, the focus is not just on individual performance but also on teamwork and cohesion. Schultz’s ability to create separation and block effectively will be vital as the Texans look to establish their offensive rhythm.
As kickoff approaches, the excitement in Houston is palpable. Fans are eager to see how the team will perform against the Buccaneers, who have traditionally posed challenges with their defensive prowess. For Schultz, this game represents an opportunity to not only contribute to the team’s success but also to showcase his skills on a national stage.
In summary, Dalton Schultz’s commitment to playing a clean game encapsulates the Texans’ mindset as they prepare for their matchup with Tampa Bay. With a focus on precision and teamwork, the stage is set for an exhilarating night of football.
