The Cleveland Browns enter Week 8 with a 5-2 record, and Sunday’s matchup against division opponent Pittsburgh Steelers could determine which team sits atop the AFC North standings next week.
At least part of the Browns’ unexpected turnaround this season has been attributed to Deshaun Watson’s return to form. But Cleveland’s decision to name Watson its starting quarterback before the regular season drew some criticism.
The quarterback’s path to Cleveland included his turbulent departure from Houston amid sexual misconduct allegations made against him. Since joining the Browns, Watson has also dealt with a series of significant injuries.
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Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson looks to pass during the second half against the Buffalo Bills at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio, on Aug. 22, 2026. (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect)
While Watson has not fully returned to the elite form he displayed with the Texans, he has thrown for more than 1,400 yards in seven games, remained healthy and provided stability at quarterback for Cleveland during its turnaround.
Watson appears to have shown enough to convince ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith that he should currently be considered the favorite to win the NFL’s Comeback Player of the Year award. “Deshaun Watson right now is the Comeback Player of the Year,” Smith said during Tuesday’s edition of “First Take.”
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“It’s uncomfortable to say it, but it’s true.”
Stephen A. Smith speaks on stage as he and Christopher Russo host SiriusXM shows live from Fanatics Fest at Javits Center on July 17, 2026, in New York City. (Getty Images for SiriusXM)
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Smith then pointed to Watson’s ability to deliver in crucial moments on the football field this season.
“Five wins, first place in the division, all five wins were come from behind victories in the fourth quarter. Led by him. Considering where he was, how bad he looked on the football field to what he has looked [like this season.]”
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Watson’s availability has been limited since 2020, when he was the NFL’s passing leader. He has suited up in seven or fewer games in each season since then while navigating lawsuits, a suspension and rehabbing from shoulder and Achilles injuries.
Deshaun Watson of the Cleveland Browns celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the second quarter at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio, on Oct. 1, 2026. (Jason Miller/Getty Images)
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The Browns have been members of the AFC North since 2002, when the league realigned its divisions. Cleveland has never won the AFC North title.
Watson and the Browns travel to Pittsburgh this weekend.