Browns Join the List of Teams Pursuing Pro Bowl QB Deshaun Watson

The Houston Texans' QB Deshaun Watson in 2017.
The Houston Texans' QB Deshaun Watson in 2017. Photo by Jevone Moore/Cal Sport Media/CSM/REX/Shutterstock (9179207aa)

The Cleveland Browns spent the majority of the offseason saying they are committed to Baker Mayfield as their franchise quarterback of the future. Their recent actions, however, indicate this isn’t the case.

According to multiple reports, the Browns joined the list of teams trying to trade for the Houston Texans’ Pro Bowl QB Deshaun Watson. Cleveland is reportedly ready to be aggressive in their pursuit and have already met with the player to make their pitch. Watson has a no-trade clause in his contract and would have to waive it in order to make any trade possible.

Watson is reportedly also considering the Carolina Panthers, the New Orleans Saints, and the Atlanta Falcons as his possible destination. All the previously mentioned teams are believed to have a deal in place with Houston and only need to convince the player to get the trade over the finishing line.

Browns’ decision to pursue Deshaun Watson didn’t sit well with Mayfield, who acknowledged his uncertain future in Cleveland on social media on Tuesday. He issued a lengthy statement that felt like a goodbye note, although he insisted there is no “hidden meaning” behind the message.

“This is strictly to thank the city of Cleveland for embracing my family and me,” Mayfield explained. “We have made many memories and shared growing in this process through all the ups and downs.”

Mayfield is coming off a disappointing season that saw him struggle with injuries and consistency. He completed 60.5 percent of his passes while throwing for 3,010 yards and 17 touchdowns in 14 games. The Browns were 6-8 with him as a starter while finishing the season with an 8-9 record overall and missing the postseason.

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