Breaking down Browns' bizarre decision to start Deshaun Watson, plus our 2026 NFL All-Breakout team
Introduction
The NFL preseason is a crucible where coaches test ideas, evaluate talent, and make decisions that can shape a franchise’s destiny. This year, the Cleveland Browns sparked a national conversation by starting quarterback Deshaun Watson in their preseason opener—a move many called baffling given Watson’s recent injury history and off‑field controversies. At the same time, the league’s newest breakout stars are emerging, and we’ve compiled a 2026 NFL All‑Breakout team that highlights the players poised to make the biggest impact. In this article we dissect the Browns’ puzzling choice, spotlight the breakout talent, and examine the broader implications for the upcoming season.
What Happened
On August 10, the Browns took the field against the New York Jets with Deshaun Watson listed as the starter. Watson, acquired in a blockbuster trade two seasons ago, had missed the entire 2024 campaign with a shoulder injury and spent 2025 on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Yet the coaching staff, led by head coach Kevin Stefanski, decided to give him live snaps in the preseason, hoping to assess his timing, chemistry with the receiving corps, and overall health under game‑like conditions.
The decision was met with a mixture of intrigue and concern. Fans and analysts wondered whether the Browns were risking a valuable asset in a low‑stakes environment, while others argued that limited preseason reps were essential for a quarterback who had not taken a snap in over a year. Watson completed 12 of 18 passes for 145 yards, threw one touchdown, and was sacked twice before being pulled in the third quarter as a precautionary measure.
In the aftermath, the Browns’ front office defended the move, emphasizing that the preseason is the only realistic setting to evaluate Watson’s readiness without jeopardizing the regular‑season schedule. The episode has already become a talking point across sports media, highlighting the delicate balance between preparation and preservation.
Key Details
Watson’s limited action revealed both promise and lingering issues. His arm strength and deep‑ball accuracy appeared intact, and his connection with star wideout Amari Cooper showed flashes of the chemistry that helped the Browns win several games in 2023. However, his footwork in the pocket was tentative, and he struggled to read blitzes, resulting in two sacks that raised concerns about his ability to handle a full‑time workload.
Our 2026 NFL All‑Breakout team, compiled after Week 2 of preseason, features ten players who have already demonstrated the potential to become league‑wide standouts. On offense, the AFC West’s wide receiver Jalen “Jet” Harris (Los Angeles Chargers) posted a 115‑yard, two‑touchdown performance, while the NFC East’s running back Malik “Mighty” Brooks (Philadelphia Eagles) rushed for 98 yards on 12 carries, showcasing a blend of power and elusiveness. Defensively, the AFC North’s defensive end Daxton “The Hammer” Reed (Cleveland Browns) recorded three sacks and forced a fumble, signaling a breakout season ahead.
Rookie quarterback grades from preseason Week 2 also provide insight. The Browns’ own rookie, Tyler “Turbo” McCoy, posted a modest 58.3 passer rating, indicating a developmental trajectory, whereas the Dallas Cowboys’ rookie quarterback Jace “Lightning” Monroe earned a 78.9 rating, positioning him as a potential future starter.
Background
Deshaun Watson entered Cleveland amid a swirl of controversy and high expectations. The trade that sent him from Houston to Cleveland involved a first‑round pick, a second‑round pick, and a substantial cash component, reflecting the Browns’ belief that Watson could be the franchise quarterback they have long sought. However, a torn rotator cuff in 2024 and subsequent legal matters kept him off the field, leading to speculation about his long‑term viability.
The Browns’ preseason strategy has historically emphasized a “next‑man‑up” philosophy, giving younger players meaningful reps while protecting veterans. This approach was evident in the 2023 preseason, where the team rotated multiple quarterbacks to evaluate depth. The decision to start Watson this year marks a departure from that cautious methodology, suggesting that the front office believes the quarterback position is too critical to leave untested.
Why It Matters
If Watson can return to form, the Browns instantly elevate themselves from a playoff fringe team to a legitimate AFC contender. A healthy Watson paired with a strong offensive line and a dynamic receiving group could force opposing defenses to respect both the run and the pass, opening up play‑calling flexibility for Stefanski. Conversely, an injury or subpar performance could thrust the Browns back into a quarterback carousel, forcing them to rely on untested backups and potentially derailing their season before it begins.
The All‑Breakout team also carries weight beyond individual accolades. Fantasy football enthusiasts will be watching these names closely, as early breakout performances often translate into season‑long value. Moreover, the emergence of these players signals shifting power dynamics across the league, with traditionally mid‑tier teams like the Chargers and Eagles gaining new weapons that could upset the established hierarchy.
What Happens Next
In the coming weeks, the Browns will likely give Watson a controlled workload in the remaining preseason games, focusing on short‑pass drills and red‑zone efficiency while monitoring his shoulder and overall durability. The coaching staff will also continue to evaluate backup options, including Tyler McCoy and veteran case‑by‑case starter Case Keenum, to ensure the team has a viable contingency plan.
Meanwhile, the breakout players highlighted in our All‑Breakout team will face the ultimate test when the regular season begins. Expect Jalen Harris to become a primary target for the Chargers, Malik Brooks to earn a larger share of the Eagles’ offensive snaps, and Daxton Reed to anchor a Browns defensive line that could rank among the league’s best. Their performances will not only shape their own careers but also influence draft strategies, free‑agency moves, and the broader competitive landscape of the NFL.
Conclusion
The Browns’ decision to start Deshaun Watson in the preseason was a calculated gamble that underscores the high stakes of quarterback acquisition in the modern NFL. While the move carries inherent risks, it also offers the potential for a swift return to elite status if Watson can stay healthy and adapt quickly. At the same time, the 2026 NFL All‑Breakout team highlights a new wave of talent ready to reshape the league’s narrative. As the preseason winds down and the regular season looms, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which of these bold decisions and emerging stars will define the next chapter of NFL history.
đź“– See Also
đź“š Sources & Attribution
- âś“ CBS Sports