Would any other team want Deshaun Watson?
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Jonathan Pino and Jake Volnick of Afternoon Drive on The Fan dive into the controversial topic of whether any NFL team would realistically want Deshaun Watson in 2026, despite his off-field issues and poor performance since joining the Cleveland Browns. The hosts express deep skepticism about Watson’s ability to contribute meaningfully, citing his injury-plagued history and lack of on-field success. While Pino remains firmly unconvinced—assigning only a 5% chance of Watson being viable—he acknowledges that the Browns’ decision to keep him opens the door for other teams to consider him, especially as a backup. They debate the psychological and PR risks teams face in signing him, noting that while most franchises would avoid the controversy, a few—like Jerry Jones’ Cowboys—might prioritize talent over optics. The conversation shifts humorously to a retail psychology segment at the Rally House, where the hosts reflect on how prolonged exposure to products (like Cleveland Monsters and Wild Thing merchandise) can change perceptions and drive purchases, drawing a parallel to how extended exposure to Watson’s potential might shift opinions.
Deshaun Watson’s 2026 NFL viability is highly questionable, with only a 5% chance of success according to the hosts.
The Browns’ decision to retain Watson creates a ripple effect, making it plausible that other teams might consider him—especially as a backup.
Most NFL teams would avoid signing Watson due to PR risks, but a few franchises may prioritize talent over controversy.
Prolonged exposure to a product (or person) can significantly alter perception—illustrated by the hosts’ changing views on Rally House merchandise.
The burden of proof lies with Watson to prove he’s capable, and even a full season of success wouldn’t fully convince skeptics until after a playoff run.
Deshaun Watson's 5% Chance: A Skeptical Take
“If Deshaun Watson starts week one, I will believe the rub is in. I will not believe it was because Shador Sanders absolutely fell on his face and wasn't able to do this. I will believe it was a rigged contest from the jump.”
Would Any Team Actually Sign Watson?
“There's probably about 28 teams that would be like, thanks but no thanks. And then about four teams that'd be like, yeah, this is worth doing.”
Retail Psychology and the Power of Exposure
The conversation shifts to a humorous, reflective segment about how prolonged exposure to products—like Cleveland Monsters and Wild Thing merchandise—can change perceptions and drive purchases, drawing a parallel to how public opinion on Watson might evolve over time.
“It would have to be – Week 17, as you're about to head into the postseason and he's completed a whole regular season where he's then dominated the actual field of play for that entire stretch before I'd be able to comfortably admit, okay, guess I was wrong.”
“If Deshaun Watson starts week one, I will believe the rub is in. I will not believe it was because Shador Sanders absolutely fell on his face and wasn't able to do this. I will believe it was a rigged contest from the jump.”
“There's probably about 28 teams that would be like, thanks but no thanks. And then about four teams that'd be like, yeah, this is worth doing.”
Hosts
Guest
Deshaun Watson
person
Jonathan Pino
person
Jake Volnick
person
Cleveland Browns
other
Shador Sanders
person
Rally House
other
Cleveland Monsters
other
Wild Thing
brand
Jerry Jones
person
Jimmy Haslam
person
Does Todd Monken Already Have a Favorite at Quarterback?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
Are the Browns Trying To Throw Everyone Off the Scent With QB Competition?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 15m • 3/31/2026
Quick Hits: Aaron Rodgers heading back to Pittsburgh?
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 12m • 3/31/2026
What's more compelling: Shohei Ohtani vs. Guardians or LeBron James vs. Cavaliers
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
Joe DeLeone: Browns can leverage the No. 6 pick if Jeremiyah Love is still available; I’d rather wait until No. 24 to draft a WR
Afternoon Drive on The Fan • 16m • 3/31/2026
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