Steelers' AFC North hopes given a boost following major news

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for a big test against a Browns team that is riding high after a big win vs. Baltimore. But per the Cleveland Browns, the team will be without their starting QB, and one of the league's highest paid players for the rest of the season: What Now? Up until the […]

Rob Gregson — NFL News Writer

Nov 15, 2023 10:38 AM EST

Sep 18, 2023; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; A dejected Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson leaves the field after losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports — Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports

The Pittsburgh Steelers are preparing for a big test against a Browns team that is riding high after a big win vs. Baltimore.

But per the Cleveland Browns, the team will be without their starting QB, and one of the league's highest paid players for the rest of the season:

Deshaun Watson will undergo season-ending surgery on a broken bone in his throwing shoulder. pic.twitter.com/W79ku2xzND
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) November 15, 2023

What Now?

#Browns QB Deshaun Watson wanted to be shot up and play through the injuries, and he sought multiple medical opinions, per sources. But doctors were clear: if he got hit again in the same spot, the shoulder could fall apart. Now surgery awaits and his 2023 season is over. pic.twitter.com/xULu52ZjVg
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 15, 2023

Up until the comeback against the Ravens last week, Watson had yet to look like the player that transcended the talent around him in Houston. Playing in only six games after his suspension last season, Watson looked clunky, rusty, and inept.

Fast forward to this season, and Watson's physique resembled the one that made him a three-time Pro Bowler. But his arm looked shot, and his decision-making was scattershot.

The shoulder injury obviously had something to do with that, but between the off-the-field drama, the injuries, and his play in a reasonable sample size, Cleveland will never say it, but they would like a mulligan right now.

So we'll see what happens next. To be clear, Watson has a guaranteed salary through the 2026 season, meaning he is in Cleveland for a minimum of three more years.

But this signing had a black cat crossing the road type of vibe since the two sides put pen to paper. Add in the fact that a QB, who you know, is paid to throw the ball, has to have a total repair of his throwing shoulder, and the future isn't exactly what Cleveland envisioned.

So for all the fodder surrounding him, all the money put in his pocket, and the current product he's produced, I think it's safe to say the Browns won't be receiving a positive return on investment.