Deshaun Watson: Analyzing His Decline Over Recent Years

By Jason Bolton September 10, 2024 08:02

Photo by USA TODAY SPORTS

Deshaun Watson arrived in the NFL as a top prospect who had led Clemson to an NCAA championship. Watson was a first-round pick, 12th overall of the Houston Texans in 2017, and quickly established himself as one of the league's most exciting young quarterbacks. He also put up gaudy numbers in his early career, including a 103.1 passer rating as a rookie. Over the following seasons, Watson consistently ranked amongst the top quarterbacks in passing yards, touchdowns, and completion percentage, earning consecutive Pro Bowl selections.

Statistical Comparisons Throughout the Years

Unfortunately, Watson has shown a significant decline in performance over the last few years. In his first three seasons, he averaged over 4,000 yards in the air and close to about 26 touchdowns. However, his numbers have plummeted since joining the Cleveland Browns in 2022 with his QBR plummeting to just 40.4, and he only fared slightly better with the same rating at 43.7 this season, all of which is less than ideal for someone being considered one of the top quarterbacks in NFL history.

Environmental Factors Affecting Performance

Injuries

Injuries have been a significant factor in Watson's decline. While he has managed to stay healthy except for his rookie season, the injuries have been enough of a drain on his mobility and mental approach that there is concern about how he can hold up through an entire season. These physical obstacles have inhibited his capacity to make plays that depend on shiftiness and decision-making behind the line of scrimmage.

“We went back to the basics, started from scratch,” Watson said in an interview. “The injury definitely helped just because I had to start over, throwing motion mechanics, taking care of my body, eating right … focusing on, what do I need to do to get back to the elite level and feeling good each and every week. We really locked in on that. We sat down together, we put out a plan and we followed that plan and that process and I feel really, really well, feel very explosive, locked in on my tasks, on the game, endurance, everything."

Team Dynamics

Moving on from the Houston Texans to play for the Cleveland Browns has been anything but easy for Watson. The Browns have a solid offensive line, but it hasn't always been the force Watson operated behind in Houston.

Moreover, QB's need time to build chemistry with his teammates, and Watson isn't an exemption. His performance might be handcuffed until he build proper chemistry with his new teammates.

Also, the Browns have really leaned on the run, too, which has helped take some of the luster from Watson's aptitude as a passer, something that has also hurt his gaudier numbers.

Off-Field Issues

They have, no doubt, weighed on Watson's mental concentration and eroded his standing with the public. Has dealt with legal issues and has been under scrutiny by the media, putting him in a tough spot that could affect his play on game day. Being scrutinized by fans and analysts in nearly every aspect of his game with a $230 million guaranteed contract has to weigh heavily on him.

Watson's Future in the League

His talent, track record, and some serious reconsideration suggest that Watson can return to form. However, the Browns would have to weigh whether they want to continue putting resources in Watson or try something else at quarterback that helps them live up to their potential of contending with a strong roster. The next few seasons will go a long way in shaping Watson's historic imprint on the NFL if he stays healthy.