Deshaun Watson Becomes Mentor as Browns QB Race Evolves in His Absence | NFL Wires

Deshaun Watson Becomes Mentor as Browns QB Race Evolves in His Absence | NFL Wires

While rehabbing a second Achilles injury, Deshaun Watson has stepped into a key mentoring role for Shedeur Sanders and other quarterbacks in Cleveland. Discover how his leadership could shape the QB competition. NFL Wires reports.

Introduction: Watson’s New Role Amid QB Uncertainty

While Deshaun Watson continues rehab for his gameday-limiting Achilles injury, he’s embraced a crucial role behind the scenes: mentoring Cleveland’s quarterback contenders. With veterans Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, and rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel vying for the QB1 job, Watson’s presence in meetings and walkthroughs is shaping the competition.

Mentor in the QB Room

In practice facility hallways and film rooms, Watson has been more tutor than trainee. Insider Mary Kay Cabot described him as “an awesome teammate … a great cheerleader for the four quarterbacks vying for the starting job,” especially aiding the rookies. Through sharing scheme insights and nuances, Watson has become an on‑floor instructor at a critical time.

Consistent Learning While Rehabbing

Although Watson remains limited physically, reports show he’s been catching passes indoors since last month, marking significant progress. He’s active in walkthrough sessions and continues guiding playbook strategy—turning adversity into leadership as Cleveland reshapes its QB depth chart.

Impact on Other Quarterbacks

Watson’s involvement has rippled through the QB room. Clipboards and headsets capture him advising rookies like Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, offering guidance on footwork, blitz reads, and offensive adjustments . Meanwhile, vets like Joe Flacco have taken different approaches—Flacco downplayed formal mentoring but emphasized leading through work habits —a contrast that reinforces the depth of the leadership network in Berea.

NFL Wires’ Take

Watson’s pivot from star QB to influential mentor shows maturity and team-first mindset. He’s making a positive splash at a time when credibility and insight may outweigh remembered arm strength. His contributions could help Cleveland’s younger QBs grow faster in a complex offense—even if he’s not suiting up on Sundays.

That said, Watson’s long-term impact remains tied to his recovery. A return by midseason could pivot Cleveland’s QB hierarchy. Until then, his mentorship gives Browns fans a reason to believe the position battle will be competitive and well-informed.

Conclusion: Leadership Beyond the Field

Watson’s Achilles rehab may delay his return, but his presence remains felt. By guiding teammates, he’s shaping Cleveland’s future—and proving leadership isn’t only measured by playoff stats. As the QB race unfolds, his behind-the-scenes impact could tell the real story.

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