Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has subtly fired back at team owner Jimmy Haslam after Haslam made what many considered degrading and hurtful remarks about the franchise’s decision to trade for the former Pro Bowler. In a recent interview, Haslam referred to the blockbuster 2022 acquisition of Watson as a “swing and miss,” a candid acknowledgment that the organization may be regretting the fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract they handed to Watson in a historic move.
Watson, clearly aware of the criticism, chose not to respond with words at a press conference or interview. Instead, he took to social media and posted a cryptic but pointed message on Instagram. Alongside images of him working out, Watson wrote, “Maybe, if I weren’t built for this, I’d let it phase me.” Though he didn’t name Haslam directly, the message was widely seen as a reaction to the owner’s remarks, signaling that Watson isn’t backing down amid growing pressure and scrutiny.
Since joining the Browns, Watson’s career has been far from smooth. He missed the first 11 games of the 2022 season due to a suspension stemming from numerous sexual misconduct allegations. Upon returning, his performances were inconsistent, and he has since battled injuries, including a shoulder injury and two Achilles-related issues that are expected to keep him sidelined for the entire 2025 season.
In his two seasons with Cleveland, Watson has started only 12 games, throwing 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. These underwhelming numbers are a stark contrast to his elite output during his years with the Houston Texans, where he was once considered a top-five quarterback in the league. Given the massive investment Cleveland made in him—not just in terms of money, but also in trading three first-round picks and facing heavy public scrutiny—the results have been disappointing for the franchise.
Haslam’s “swing and miss” comment indicates a shift in the Browns’ organizational stance toward Watson. With the team holding the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, speculation is swirling that they may use the pick to select a quarterback. Colorado standout Shedeur Sanders has been linked to Cleveland, and drafting a new signal-caller would send a strong message that the team is preparing for a future without Watson.
The situation raises questions about the Browns’ long-term plans and Watson’s role moving forward. While Watson’s post suggests mental toughness and a refusal to let criticism derail him, it also highlights the growing tension between player and ownership. Public disagreements of this nature are rare in the NFL and often a sign that a breakup could be looming.
Ultimately, Watson will need more than motivational quotes to change the narrative. If he returns healthy in 2026, he’ll have to prove—on the field—that the Browns’ investment wasn’t in vain. Until then, the rift between Watson and Haslam will likely remain one of the league’s most closely watched storylines.