The Cleveland Browns Seem Ready Gamble on QB Deshaun Watson to START According To Owner Jimmy Haslam

Locked On NFL – Daily Podcast On The National Football League27mApril 7, 2026

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “The Cleveland Browns Seem Ready Gamble on QB Deshaun Watson to START According To Owner Jimmy Haslam” inside PodZeus.

AI-Generated Summary

The Locked On NFL podcast discusses the Cleveland Browns' potential decision to start Deshaun Watson in 2026, following comments from owner Jimmy Haslam expressing cautious optimism about Watson's return from injury and contract obligations. Hosts Tony Wiggins and Kevin Ostracker debate whether this move is a strategic gamble or a continuation of poor decision-making, with Wiggins arguing that the Browns should instead develop young quarterback Shadou Sanders or bring back Joe Flacco. The conversation explores the sunk cost fallacy, the emotional and psychological toll on Watson, and the lack of viable alternatives in the quarterback market. The episode also covers the New Orleans Saints' successful defensive overhaul with the addition of pass-rushing linebacker Caden Ellis, highlighting their ability to build a versatile, high-impact unit. Dallas Cowboys' ongoing struggles to find a dual-threat linebacker are analyzed, with concerns that relying on veteran 'salary dumps' may not be sustainable. Finally, the Rams' dilemma with wide receiver Puka Nakua is examined, as off-field controversies and media scrutiny raise questions about his long-term value despite his elite on-field performance. The episode concludes with a strong endorsement of the Everydayer Club for fans seeking deeper engagement with the network.

Key Takeaways
1

Deshaun Watson may start for the Browns in 2026 despite injury and off-field issues, per owner Jimmy Haslam's comments.

2

The Browns' decision to restart Watson may reflect a sunk cost fallacy and lack of confidence in young QB Shadou Sanders.

3

New Orleans Saints are building a versatile defense by acquiring Caden Ellis, a pass-rushing linebacker with dual-role value.

4

Dallas Cowboys need a true dual-threat linebacker and may rely on veteran 'salary dumps' if they don't address the need early.

5

Puka Nakua's off-field controversies could jeopardize his long-term role with the Rams, even if he's a top-tier receiver.

…and 2 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Welcome to the Barbershop

Introduction to the Locked On NFL podcast and the Everydayer Club membership program.

1:40
7 min

Deshaun Watson’s Path to Starting QB

I just think it's Cleveland saying, well, nobody else is out there and we don't have a quarterback anyway. So we might as well just try to get one more swing at making this thing look good.

Highlight
8:20
8 min

The Case Against Watson and for Sanders

Kevin Ostracker argues that the Browns should trust young QB Shadou Sanders over Watson, citing lack of confidence in Watson’s recovery and long-term viability.

16:40
7 min

New Orleans Saints’ Defensive Transformation

He kills two birds in one storm. With pass rush and linebacker. Listen.

Highlight
23:20
7 min

Dallas Cowboys’ Linebacker Dilemma

Discussion on Dallas’ struggles to find a dual-threat linebacker and their potential reliance on veteran 'salary dumps' post-draft.

High-Impact Quotes
I don't care if the allegations are true or not. If I was a Rams fan, I've had it. I would trade him right now and get another first round pick.
Tony Wiggins24:21
Viral: 92.0
I just think it's Cleveland saying, well, nobody else is out there and we don't have a quarterback anyway. So we might as well just try to get one more swing at making this thing look good.
Tony Wiggins8:42
Viral: 85.0
He kills two birds in one storm. With pass rush and linebacker. Listen.
Kevin Ostracker13:09
Viral: 78.0
Speakers

Hosts

Tony WigginsKevin Ostracker

Guests

Spencer GermanRoss Jackson
Topics Discussed
Cleveland Browns Quarterback Decision90%New Orleans Saints Defense88%Deshaun Watson's Comeback85%Puka Nakua Controversy82%Dallas Cowboys Linebacker Needs75%Sunk Cost Fallacy in Sports70%Team Building and Development65%Draft Strategy and Free Agency60%
People & Brands

Deshaun Watson

person

24xMixed

Cleveland Browns

other

20xMixed

Kevin Ostracker

person

18xNeutral

Locked On NFL

media

15xPositive

New Orleans Saints

other

14xPositive

Puka Nakua

person

14xMixed

Shadou Sanders

person

12xPositive

Los Angeles Rams

other

12xMixed

Dallas Cowboys

other

10xNeutral

Caden Ellis

person

8xPositive

Get the full intelligence

Search transcripts, export clips, track mentions, and explore all topics from “The Cleveland Browns Seem Ready Gamble on QB Deshaun Watson to START According To Owner Jimmy Haslam” inside PodZeus.

Start discovering podcast insights today

Start with a 7-day trial and explore a growing catalog of popular podcasts. No credit card required.

No credit card required • 7-day trial • Cancel anytime