Browns QB Deshaun Watson gets underwhelming 2026 stat projections

The Cleveland Browns are still in the midst of sorting out their quarterback battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders heading into mandatory minicamp. This has mucked up the 2026 projection of both quarterbacks, according to ESPN’s Mike Clay.

Every year, Clay puts out a projection guide where he does his best to estimate the output of every roster in the NFL, and so here, we will look at the outlook for Watson. Can he bounce back after tearing his achilles in 2024 and missing the entire 2025 with a fresh start from new head coach Todd Monken?

Here is what ESPN’s Clay thinks heading into the season

According to Clay, Watson is his projected starting quarterback for the Browns for at least the majority of the season. He has Watson projected with better numbers than Sanders heading into the 2026 season, with no other quarterback given 2026 stat projections.

Clay has projected for Watson to throw for 2,040 yards, with eight passing touchdowns and seven interceptions for the Browns this year. Clay added 211 yards and one touchdown on the ground for Watson’s stat predictions for this upcoming season.

Overall, some pretty underwhelming numbers for the quarterback of a team who will likely be looking to draft another one next year.