Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry confirmed today that quarterback Deshaun Watson is on track to return to the field in March, signaling the potential for a dramatic push toward the playoffs in the final stretch of the 2025 NFL season.
Watson, who has been sidelined due to a lingering shoulder injury, has been steadily recovering over the past few weeks, and doctors have cleared him for full participation. His return comes at a pivotal moment for the Browns, who are fighting to maintain a playoff position in the AFC.
“We are confident that Deshaun will be ready to go in March,” Berry said during a press conference. “He’s put in the work, he’s been progressing well, and we expect him to make an immediate impact. Our team has been competing at a high level, and Deshaun’s presence will only elevate us.”
The Browns (8-6) are currently on the fringe of a wild card spot, with their playoff chances hanging by a thread as the season enters its final month. Watson’s return to the field could provide the spark the offense has been lacking since his injury sidelined him mid-season. In his absence, backup quarterbacks have struggled to find consistency, and the offense has been erratic at times.
Watson, 28, has shown flashes of his former Pro Bowl form since joining the Browns in 2022. However, injuries have limited his ability to fully contribute to the offense. This season, Watson has posted a respectable 2,400 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions in 10 games, but his performance has been hampered by injury and inconsistent offensive line play.
The Browns’ fanbase has eagerly anticipated Watson’s return, with many hopeful that his presence can inject new life into the team’s playoff push. Cleveland has not made the playoffs since 2020, and the franchise is eager to return to the postseason and build on the momentum from its recent improvements.
A Timely Return for a Playoff Push
Watson’s potential return in March could not come at a better time. The Browns face a difficult schedule in the final weeks of the season, including crucial matchups against division rivals like the Cincinnati Bengals and Pittsburgh Steelers. The AFC North is one of the most competitive divisions in the league, and the Browns will need to win nearly all of their remaining games to secure a wild card berth.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski has expressed optimism about Watson’s recovery and the team’s ability to make a late-season surge. “Deshaun is a competitor,” Stefanski said. “When he’s on the field, he’s one of the best in the league. Having him back in the huddle will give our team a huge boost as we push for the postseason.”
Fan Expectations Soar
While Watson’s return is a cause for optimism in Cleveland, fans have tempered their expectations, knowing that he will need time to shake off the rust after an extended period away from game action. However, with the postseason on the line, even a partial return to form from Watson could be enough to make a difference.
“I believe in Deshaun,” said Browns fan Mark Ellis. “I know he’s been through a lot, but if anyone can lead this team to the playoffs, it’s him. We’ve got a shot, and I’m excited to see what he can do in these last few weeks.”
As Watson prepares to make his highly anticipated return, all eyes in Cleveland will be on the quarterback’s performance and how he can help the Browns achieve their ultimate goal — a playoff berth. With the margin for error slim, Watson’s comeback could be the spark that turns the Browns’ season around and propels them into the postseason for the first time in five years.
Stay tuned as the Browns’ March push begins and the excitement builds in Cleveland.
