Deshaun Watson started just six games for the second straight season, playing only 383 snaps — four fewer than his suspension-shortened 2022. The Browns have not seen a significant return on their costly trade with the Texans, but they are still tied to Watson due to the contract they authorized to acquire him in 2022.

Entering the third season of his five-year, $230MM guaranteed deal, Watson is slowly being integrated back into the team. Dealing with injuries from last season, Watson has not fully participated in the offseason program, but he has started throwing in front of the media for the first time this week.

Watson, 28, has been involved in individual drills and is throwing to receivers during practice sessions that do not involve a defense. Jameis Winston is taking reps in team periods, but the team is gradually bringing Watson along, with coach Kevin Stefanski indicating that Watson is not throwing every day during OTAs. This schedule is expected to change at next month’s minicamp.

New Browns OC Ken Dorsey noted that Watson made a vertical throw down the sideline during practice, which was a positive sign of his progress. While the Browns are still tied to Watson through 2026, they have not restructured his contract this year, resulting in a record-breaking $63.77MM cap number for the team.

Watson’s recovery from surgery is expected to be six months, and the Browns will closely monitor his progress as they aim to have sustained quality quarterback play with their high-priced acquisition.