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Cleveland Browns options at quarterback if Deshaun Watson is suspended all year

By Greg Newland

Jan 9, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws the ball against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Expectations for the Deshaun Watson suspension are at least one season. The Cleveland Browns could snag one of these three guys for 2022.

Crapshoot seems to be the most appropriate description of the situation for the Cleveland Browns awaiting the punishment for Deshaun Watson. With the hearing set for Tuesday, the expectation is a ruling should be out before the end of the week.

With the admittance of guilt by settling 20 of the 24 cases, there will certainly be some sort of suspension. Many believed if he held out and fought them all in court, he may have a chance to not be suspended in 2022, but then could face a penalty the following seasons.

The real question is, how many games is he suspended in 2022? I’ve heard people who think they are in “the know” estimate anywhere from a six-game suspension, to an indefinite suspension that would last all of 2022 and possibly more. I personally think it will be 10 to 17 games, and the Browns should look for another option at quarterback. Here are three possibilities.

Cleveland Browns Option at Quarterback No. 3 – Nick Foles

Cleveland Browns
Jun 7, 2022; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Nick Foles (9) throws a pass during minicamp at the Colts practice facility. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports /

Although Nick Foles is employed by the Indianapolis Colts, he has been the ultimate journeyman that last few seasons and could very easily be traded again. With a 29-27 record as a starter and a Super Bowl victory as a starter, Foles would bring some instant creditability to the huddle.

After the breakout year in Philadelphia, Foles was never able to cut it as a starter with chances in Jacksonville and Chicago, but for a one-year rental, he would not be a bad option. Foles has some mobility and a strong arm to fit the Kevin Stefanski offense, and he’s never had a running game as good as what the Cleveland Browns can provide.

I’m not saying it would be a match made in heaven, but if Watson is suspended for more than half of the season (which appears likely), a trade for Foles would make a lot of sense. I think he does give you a better chance than Jacoby Brissett.

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