Deshaun Watson shares Public Plea For Proven Game-Changer WR To Join His Squad…
In a recent development, Deshaun Watson, the quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, has publicly expressed the need for a proven game-changing wide receiver to join his team. Since signing with the Browns, Watson has faced challenges, including injuries and a suspension in 2022, limiting his appearances to just 11 games over the past two seasons. The Browns are optimistic that Watson will have a full and productive season in 2024, akin to his exceptional performance during his final year with the Houston Texans in 2020.
During that standout year, Watson threw for nearly 5,000 yards, 33 touchdowns, and only 7 interceptions, boasting an impressive QB rating of 112.4. A key factor in Watson’s success has always been his synergy with a big-bodied wide receiver who can excel in 50/50 situations. Currently, the Browns lack a player with such build on their roster. In Houston, Watson enjoyed an outstanding partnership with former Clemson teammate DeAndre Hopkins, widely acknowledged as one of the top quarterback-wide receiver tandems in the NFL.
While the Browns have the elite-level wideout Amari Cooper known for his route-running ability and breakaway speed, he doesn’t possess the physical stature typically associated with the type of receiver Watson thrives with. Tight end David Njoku, a big-bodied threat in the middle of the field, found chemistry with another quarterback at the end of the 2023 season, but his role differs significantly from that of a wide receiver like Hopkins.
In a recent podcast episode titled “QB Unplugged,” Watson made a compelling pitch for another former Clemson alum, Tee Higgins, to join the Cleveland Browns. Despite Ja’Marr Chase being considered the primary wideout for the Cincinnati Bengals during the Joe Burrow era, Higgins has played a crucial role in the team’s success, contributing to their Super Bowl appearance in just two years.
Higgins, set to become a free agent this offseason, boasts an impressive four-year stint with the Bengals, amassing 257 receptions for 3,684 yards and 24 touchdowns. With his status as a true No. 1 big-bodied threat comparable to DJ Metcalf or AJ Brown, Higgins is expected to command a substantial contract in the market. Considering the financial commitments to Burrow’s extension and Chase’s impending contract, it appears unlikely that the Bengals can retain Higgins.
During the podcast, Watson directly addressed Higgins, expressing the team’s eagerness to pass the ball extensively and assuring him of a warm reception from Cleveland fans. Watson highlighted the shared Clemson ties and emphasized that this could be their opportunity to play together.
However, the Browns may face challenges in securing Higgins due to financial constraints. Estimates suggest a market value of four years and $74.4 million for Higgins, translating to around $18.6 million per season. This might strain the Browns’ salary cap, and there’s also the possibility that the Bengals could use the franchise tag to retain Higgins.
Despite the financial hurdles, Watson’s message is clear—he desires additional weapons in the form of a proven wide receiver, with Tee Higgins topping his list. The Browns front office may need to navigate their cap space strategically to fulfill Watson’s request and enhance the team’s offensive capabilities for the upcoming season.
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