The Cleveland Browns' trade for Deshaun Watson has become a cautionary tale for NFL teams regarding draft capital. Overvaluing Watson's worth led to one of the most criticized trades in sports history, costing the Browns significant future picks. In exchange for Watson, Cleveland surrendered three first-round picks and a fourth-rounder, while the Houston Texans added promising players like Will Anderson Jr. and Tank Dell with those picks, illustrating the importance of valuing draft capital correctly.

This situation highlights the necessity for teams to acknowledge the potential long-term benefits of draft picks, as Hall of Fame players have often emerged from lower rounds. Hitting on first-round picks can reshape franchises, but the Browns' overvaluation of Watson has underscored the risks of mismanaging such opportunities. The lesson here is clear: teams must exercise caution in trades, weighing the short-term gains against the long-term potential of their draft assets.

With Deshaun Watson's future uncertain after a pair of torn Achilles injuries, the Cleveland Browns have turned their attention to potential quarterback options for the upcoming NFL season. Kenny Pickett, acquired from the Philadelphia Eagles, expressed his eagerness to seize the starting role, stating, 'That’s the plan, man. I’m not going there to hang out.' The Browns traded a fifth-round draft pick and quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson for Pickett, who boasts a 15-10 record as a starter. Despite spending last season as a backup, he is motivated to compete.

However, Pickett won't have an easy path to the starting job. Veteran Joe Flacco, who had a successful stint with the Browns in 2023, has been signed to add depth. The 40-year-old quarterback holds a 4-1 record with the team and has considerable playoff experience. Additionally, the Browns are eyeing potential quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL draft, with possible prospects including Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart. Regardless of the competition, Pickett is focused on building relationships with his new teammates and showcasing his talent.

Deshaun Watson is back in the spotlight, sharing a workout video showcasing his rehabilitation from a re-torn Achilles injury while wearing Cleveland Browns gear. His motivation seems to counter the skepticism surrounding his performance, as Browns owner Jimmy Haslam admitted the trade for Watson was a significant misstep. Despite Watson's optimism about returning to form, experts note Achilles injuries typically take a year to heal, and the Browns appear to be moving on, having signed Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco, with plans potentially in place for a rookie quarterback.

Watson's future with the Browns is uncertain. After a series of injuries and inconsistent play over three seasons, it's likely the team may part ways with him next offseason to mitigate the financial burden of his contract. Even if Watson aims to rebound, the most realistic path may lead him away from Cleveland.

Joe Flacco returns to the AFC North, signing a one-year deal with the Cleveland Browns, potentially setting up a reunion with his former team, the Baltimore Ravens, in 2025. This $4 million contract could escalate to $13 million with incentives, depending on his performance and playing time. Flacco's impressive return in 2023 earned him the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year after guiding the Browns to the playoffs, stepping in for the injured Deshaun Watson.

Now 40, Flacco's journey included a stint with the Indianapolis Colts last season, where he had 12 touchdowns against 7 interceptions, but managed only a 2-4 record as a starter. The Browns are looking for depth at quarterback, especially with Watson's ongoing recovery from a second ruptured Achilles tendon, which could sideline him for the entire 2025 season. Flacco is set to compete with Kenny Pickett for the starting position, adding more intrigue to the upcoming season.

The Cleveland Browns are preparing for an impactful 2025 NFL draft with the second overall pick and a deep pool of selections. Following a trend set by the Houston Texans, the Browns are eyeing a dynamic duo from Colorado: quarterback Shedeur Sanders and playmaker Travis Hunter. Trading up could allow them to secure both talents, revolutionizing their roster while moving past the Deshaun Watson era. A potential deal with the Denver Broncos could see the Browns jump to 20th to select Sanders, pairing him with Hunter as immediate offensive threats. Alternatively, they could target offensive line help by moving up to pick 24 to secure a top tackle like Kelvin Banks. Trading with Miami for the 13th pick opens doors for a franchise-altering selection, whether that's another quarterback or a key prospect to enhance their roster.