The Cleveland Browns are in the middle of a nosedive, and right at the center of the turbulence is quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Videos by FanBuzz
After a 20-16 loss to the Eagles, Cleveland's fourth straight defeat, Watson's struggles are glaring, and it's not just a bad week — it's been a bad season.
The Browns' offense is historically bad, managing less than 20 points in all six games, a feat not seen since the 2014 Jaguars. Add in the fact that they haven't topped 300 total yards once this season, and the alarms are blaring.
Despite the struggles, head coach Kevin Stefanski isn't budging. He continues to back Watson as the team's best option, telling reporters on Monday, "I think Deshaun gives us the best chance to win."
It's a bold stance, especially when you consider Watson's league-worst QBR of 21.5. But Stefanski's unwavering support for Watson — even with a capable backup like Jameis Winston sitting on the bench — speaks volumes about the state of the Browns' decision-making process.
It's clear Stefanski wants to own the decision. When pressed on whether ownership, namely Jimmy Haslam, is forcing his hand in keeping Watson as the starter, Stefanski pushed back, insisting it's his call.
"We have a good dialogue," he said, pointing out that everyone from GM Andrew Berry to ownership has been supportive.
But in the world of the NFL, where narratives drive conversation and a $230 million contract looms large, you can't ignore the external pressure that comes with benching Watson.
The numbers don't lie — Watson has been bad. But so has the entire offense. Stefanski emphasized that they need better play at every position, not just quarterback.
Still, this situation is getting close to critical. How long can Stefanski afford to stick with Watson if the Browns continue to falter?
This is the type of decision that can define a coach's tenure. Stefanski's betting big that Watson can figure it out, but if he's wrong, the Browns could find themselves in a hole too deep to climb out of this season.
