The question "do the browns still own coyote pass" appears frequently among Cleveland Browns fans and fantasy football players tracking quarterback situations. Below is a detailed look at who controls the starting job, how that impacts the team, and what to expect moving forward.
Ownership and roster decisions directly shape whether Deshaun Watson or another quarterback remains the centerpiece of Cleveland's offense. Understanding the current structure helps clarify how the Browns plan to compete in the AFC North.
| Quarterback | 2024 Status | Contract Control | Projected 2025 Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deshaun Watson | Rehabbing, limited reps in 2024 | Fully guaranteed through 2025, no traded before deadline | Expected starter if cleared, otherwise backup |
| Peddy Sarr | 2024 starter, moderate efficiency | RFA, tender applied in 2024 | Short-term solution, trade target |
| Joe Flacco | 12 starts in 2B role, solid veteran performance | One-year veteran minimum deal | Bridge starter or long-term answer |
| NCAA QBs (Practice Squad) | Limited reps in practices | No control, developmental | Depth and competition only |
Current Ownership and Roster Control
The Browns organization, led by owner Jimmy Haslam and executive vice president of football operations Andrew Berry, retains full control over roster decisions. This includes the right to determine who receives the most snaps and how contract guarantees are managed.
Because Deshaun Watson remains under contract through 2025, the Browns have the flexibility to keep him as the starter or pivot to another option. Financial penalties and trade deadlines still influence whether they fully commit to him or pursue a rebuild around a different signal-caller.
Quarterback Competition Dynamics
Inside the training camp and preseason, competition between Deshaun Watson, Peddy Sarr, and Joe Flacco shaped the early narrative. Each quarterback brought different strengths in arm talent, decision-making, and veteran presence.
Coaching staff evaluated not only performance in controlled drills but also in simulated game situations. Depth chart positioning followed a mix of results from these sessions and the perceived ceiling of each player under center.
Injury Rehabilitation and Timeline
Watson's ongoing recovery from past injuries continues to dictate the flow of practice reps and preseason readiness. Medical clearances from the team and league protocols play a decisive role in timing his return to full participation.
Until he logs consistent live reps, the Browns keep plans flexible. This affects not only the starter job but also how wide receivers and offensive linemen build chemistry in the offseason.
2025 Roster Implications and Schedule Impact
The quarterback situation directly influences cap space, draft strategy, and trade package construction. Keeping Watson means managing a high cap hit and potential offset language, while moving on from him opens room for younger talent.
Schedule strength, divisional matchups, and the AFC North balance also factor into how urgently Cleveland needs a reliable starter. Teams preparing for a playoff push may move differently than those embracing a full rebuild.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Monitor preseason performance and practice participation for the most accurate snapshot of the starter.
- Track contract timelines and offset language to understand cap implications for 2025 and beyond.
- Follow organizational statements from Andrew Berry and the Browns front office for official updates.
- Evaluate depth chart movement week to week as a leading indicator of the final decision.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is Deshaun Watson still the Browns starting quarterback for 2025?
He remains the contractual starter if medically cleared, but final designation depends on preseason performance and organizational preference.
Can the Browns trade Deshaun Watson before the 2025 season?
Yes, they can trade him, but any move must align with the 2025 cap rules and include offset language to protect future salary space efficiently.
What happens if Watson is not ready for Week 1?
The Browns would install Joe Flacco or another internal option as the short-term starter while managing Watson's timeline carefully with limited reps.
How does the quarterback situation affect the draft strategy?
If the plan centers on Watson, the draft may focus on complementary pieces, whereas uncertainty could push Cleveland toward selecting a quarterback earlier.