In the aftermath of a tumultuous split from the Houston Texans, quarterback Deshaun Watson has established a new home with the Cleveland Browns. The intriguing question arises: how does Watson perceive the success of rookie C.J. Stroud, who has essentially stepped into his shoes and excelled with Watson’s former team?
During an episode of his podcast, “QB Unplugged,” Watson addressed this topic after being probed by guest and former MVP Cam Newton. Surprisingly, Watson conveyed not a hint of bitterness toward Stroud; instead, he seemed to endorse the young quarterback by metaphorically handing him the keys to the city. Watson stated, “From day one, I’ve always been like — right when he got drafted, ‘Take over H-Town; it’s your city now.’ I’ve always been that big, bro. You know what I’m saying? In the distance.”
The peculiar choice of words portrayed Stroud’s ascension as a mere passing of the torch, disregarding the complex circumstances that led to Watson’s departure—a trade request and allegations of sexual misconduct, culminating in an 11-game suspension and mandatory counseling.
Tell me how you really feel Deshaun 🗣️ Watch Deshaun Watson, Quincy Avery, & Cam Newton discuss CJ Stroud's success + more on Episode 13 of QB Unplugged, now exclusively on Lockerverse!https://t.co/L2gTru9iJH@DeshaunWatson @QuincyAvery @CameronNewton @CJ7STROUD pic.twitter.com/jXCZoYa0O2
— Lockerverse (@Lockerverse) January 19, 2024
Despite Watson’s understated description of his separation from the Texans as “business is business,” the reality of the situation is far more intricate. Nevertheless, his sentiments towards Stroud seem authentic. Watson even disclosed that the two had trained together in the past and shared the same agent, suggesting a level of camaraderie. Although Watson appeared visibly cheerful, perhaps masking an attempt to avoid saying the wrong thing, his happiness for Stroud, a first-year player, seems plausible.
Moreover, Watson empathized with the pressure and emotions Stroud is currently navigating, drawing parallels to his own experience winning a wild-card game in Houston. Despite any lingering sentiments or competitive instincts regarding the Texans and Stroud, Watson’s outlook doesn’t appear malicious. Ultimately, he landed on his feet, securing a lucrative five-year, $230 million contract with the Browns—a team that appeared promising until his season-ending shoulder injury.
Leave a Reply