Deshaun Watson replacements: 5 players Browns should target after $230,000,000 QB's Achilles injury

Deshaun Watson has been a massive disappointment for the Cleveland Browns since he was acquired via a trade with the Houston Texans. He has been trying to find his rhythm this season after failing to do so in the past two years. However, his attempt has been cut short after he suffered a devastating Achilles injury in Week 7 against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Browns must now find another quarterback to replace Watson, who they already gave a six-year fully guaranteed $230,000,000 contract. They have Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Jameis Winston on their roster, but they may choose to seek outside help. Here are five potential options for them.

Deshaun Watson replacements after Achilles injury for Browns

Deshaun Watson

#1 - Joe Flacco

Joe Flacco replaced Deshaun Watson when he got hurt last year and ended up leading the Cleveland Browns to the NFL playoffs. Despite his massive success as a fill-in, the franchise opted not to resign him during the offseason. He is currently with the Indianapolis Colts, but it would make sense for the Browns to pursue a trade given his experience in their offense.

#2 - Ryan Tannehill

Ryan Tannehill produced mixed results as the starting QB for the Tennessee Titans, but he led them to the NFL playoffs three times in four years. He is a free agent this season, so the Browns wouldn't have to give anything up to get him as Watson's replacement.

#3 - Justin Fields

Justin Fields is reportedly being benched in favor of Russell Wilson, despite the Pittsburgh Steelers getting off to a strong 4-2 start to the season. Fields has already proven he can win games and would also add a rushing element to the Browns' QB position if they acquire him. He may be available now that the Steelers are going forward with Wilson.

#4 - Jimmy Garoppolo

Jimmy Garoppolo is one of the best overall backup QBs in the entire NFL when judging his career success. He appeared in a Super Bowl with the San Francisco 49ers but now backs up Matthew Stafford for the LA Rams. He makes sense as a short-term replacement for Watson in the same way Flacco did last year.

#5 - Jacoby Brissett

Jacoby Brissett spent a season with the Browns in 2022, so he is familiar with the organization. He now plays for the New England Patriots, but recently lost his starting job to rookie Drake Maye. It would be a logical move for the Browns to potentially bring him back and it shouldn't cost much to do so in a trade situation.