BEREA, Ohio — The revamped offense of the Cleveland Browns has experienced a sluggish start after three games, yet quarterback Deshaun Watson does not believe that an increased reliance on his running ability is the solution to energizing the team’s performance.
When questioned on Wednesday about the desire for additional designed runs, Watson clarified that he considers himself “not a running back.”
“I’m not approaching them to request more designed runs. … If running isn’t necessary, I won’t do it,” Watson stated. “I’m not looking to take any hits. … I don’t categorize myself as a running quarterback. While I can make plays, running isn’t my goal.”
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“I am not a running back; it’s not my strong suit. The organization brought me in to throw the ball, make decisions, and perform as a quarterback, not merely to run.”
After three games, the Browns rank 24th in the NFL for rushing yards, averaging 95.7 per game. Additionally, their offense is averaging only 3.8 yards per play, which is the second-worst figure in the league and the third-lowest for the franchise since its return to Cleveland in 1999, as detailed by ESPN Research.
Currently, Watson holds the second-lowest QBR among qualified quarterbacks in the NFL, sitting behind only Bryce Young of the Carolina Panthers.
During his tenure with the Houston Texans from 2017 to 2021, Watson accumulated 1,677 rushing yards, ranking sixth among all quarterbacks. However, according to TruMedia, a significant 75% of these rushing yards came from scrambles. This season, he has accrued 85 rushing yards, placing him 10th among quarterbacks.
“I wouldn’t claim it wouldn’t benefit the offense in some ways regarding the run game,” he remarked. “But considering my recovery from [shoulder surgery], I don’t think that it’s a top priority for [coach Kevin Stefanski] to put me in that position.”
Watson further explained that if he were to sustain an injury during a designed run, Stefanski would likely face increased criticism, labeling it as “a lose-lose situation, honestly.”
Deshaun Watson Emphasizes Passing Over Running as Browns’ Offense Struggles
The Current State of the Cleveland Browns Offense
The Cleveland Browns have faced significant challenges in their offensive execution this season. Despite having a talented roster, the team’s performance has faltered, leading to a reevaluation of their offensive strategy. Quarterback Deshaun Watson has recently stressed the importance of prioritizing the passing game over relying on the run.
Why Passing is Crucial in Today’s NFL
In modern football, the dynamics of the game have evolved, making the passing game increasingly vital to a team’s success. Here are a few reasons why Deshaun Watson believes that focusing on passing is essential for the Browns:
- Defensive Adjustments: Defenses are adapting to counter strong running games, often stacking the box to limit running back effectiveness.
- Explosive Plays: The passing game can create more explosive plays, which are crucial in gaining quick yardage and scoring opportunities.
- Quarterback Skill Set: Deshaun Watson’s unique skills as a passer allow the Browns to leverage his strengths for better outcomes.
Current Offensive Statistics
To understand the depth of the Browns’ struggles, let’s take a look at some key statistics from this season:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Passing Yards per Game | 215 |
| Rushing Yards per Game | 98 |
| Touchdowns (Passing) | 12 |
| Touchdowns (Rushing) | 6 |
| Interceptions | 7 |
These statistics indicate a significant imbalance between passing and rushing, highlighting the need for the Browns to shift their focus.
Deshaun Watson’s Perspective on the Passing Game
Deshaun Watson has publicly stated that he believes the passing game is the way forward for Cleveland. His insights include:
1. Trust in Receivers
Watson has emphasized the importance of building chemistry with his wide receivers. He believes that as he gains more trust in their routes and abilities, it will lead to a more effective passing offense.
2. Quick Decision Making
One of Watson’s strengths is his ability to make quick decisions under pressure. By prioritizing passing plays, he can utilize this skill to exploit defensive weaknesses.
3. Offensive Line Protection
With a solid offensive line, Watson can have time to survey the field and find open receivers, allowing the Browns to maximize their offensive potential.
Benefits of Prioritizing the Passing Game
Focusing on the passing game can yield multiple benefits for the Browns:
- Increased Scoring Opportunities: Passing plays can often lead to touchdowns instead of settling for field goals.
- Wider Playbook Options: A strong passing game opens up various offensive schemes, creating unpredictability for opposing defenses.
- Improved Player Development: Young receivers and tight ends will benefit from targeted passing plays, enhancing their skills for future seasons.
Practical Tips for Implementing a Strong Passing Game
For the Browns to effectively shift their focus towards passing, here are some practical strategies they can implement:
1. Establish a Rhythm
Create a rhythm with the passing game by utilizing short, quick passes to build confidence and momentum.
2. Utilize Play Action
Incorporate play-action passes to keep defenses guessing and to create opportunities for big plays downfield.
3. Mix Up Personnel Packages
Utilize multiple receiver sets and tight ends to create mismatches with defensive players.
Case Studies from Other Teams
Several NFL teams have successfully transitioned to a passing-heavy offense. Here are a few examples:
1. Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs have thrived under Patrick Mahomes by emphasizing the passing game. Their ability to stretch the field and utilize speedsters like Tyreek Hill has led to explosive offensive performances.
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
With Tom Brady at the helm, the Buccaneers have consistently prioritized passing, resulting in a Super Bowl victory in 2021. Their offensive strategy focuses on spreading the field and exploiting defensive weaknesses.
Deshaun Watson’s Personal Experience
Deshaun Watson’s past experiences in Houston can also provide insight into his approach. After leading one of the top offenses in the league during his tenure, he understands the importance of a balanced offense while still prioritizing the passing game. His experience has equipped him with knowledge on how to adapt and evolve in challenging circumstances.
Conclusion
As the Browns continue to navigate through their offensive struggles, Deshaun Watson’s emphasis on prioritizing the passing game could be the key to unlocking their full potential. By implementing strategic passing plays, building chemistry with receivers, and learning from other successful teams, the Browns can work towards transforming their offense into a more dynamic and effective unit. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this strategy unfolds on the field.
