When the Browns swung a trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson back in 2022, they believed they had landed the franchise quarterback that had eluded them for the last two decades. While the franchise continues to wait for the full returns on their investment from Watson, their trade partner, Houston has already found a worthy successor.
Ohio State product C.J. Stroud took the NFL by storm this year in his rookie season. The second overall pick compiled 4,108 yards – the third most by a rookie in NFL history – 23 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He led the league in touchdown to interception ratio to boot.
Just last week, Stroud shredded Watson’s new team, to the beat of 274 yards and three touchdowns to earn a 45-14 win the the NFL’s Wild Card round of the playoffs. Watson was on the Browns sideline to see it all in person. But did seeing a new, young phenom claim the thrown he once had leave a bad taste in Watson’s mouth?
On the QB Unplugged podcast, hosted by Watson’s quarterback coach Quincy Avery, former Panthers’ QB Cam Newton made an appearance to ask the 28-year-old signal how he felt about the situation in Houston.
“Honestly, nah, it don’t” Watson said regarding whether or not it bothered him.
