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When the Houston Texans take the field on Sunday, they will encounter a familiar face in DeShaun Watson, now the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns. Watson, the Texans' first-round pick in 2017 and once the cornerstone of the franchise, is expected to start after sitting out the previous week against the New Orleans Saints.
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans offered his assessment of Watson's recent performance, noting that the quarterback has been decisive with the football. "He's getting the ball out of his hands very quickly," Ryans said. "When it's not there, it's his athletic ability to escape the pocket. He's moving up and out through the pocket. They have some design quarterback runs for him as well, so he's using his athleticism. But also, if it's open, he's going to put the guys in there. We have to be where we're supposed to be, or he'll make you pay."
Watson's tenure in Houston was marked by early success, as he guided the AFC South team to playoff appearances in 2018 and 2019. His most productive season came in 2020, when he set franchise records and led the NFL in passing yards despite the team winning only four games. He currently ranks second in Texans history in passing yards, though current quarterback C.J. Stroud is on pace to surpass him by season's end, with projections of over 4,300 yards and 34 touchdowns.
Despite the history between Watson and the Texans, Ryans remains focused on securing the team's fourth win of the season and keeping their playoff aspirations alive. "The thing that showed up the most for me watching the Browns throughout this year is how they performed in those clutch moments," Ryans said. "In those two-minute moments, situations, Deshaun has really rose to the occasion. He's made some really big plays to put their team in position to win a lot of football games."
Watson has faced Houston only once in his career, a December 2022 matchup in which Cleveland emerged victorious 27-14, despite Watson throwing for just 131 yards and no touchdowns. Kickoff is scheduled for noon on FOX.
Key Analysis
Ryans' comments underscore the challenge the Texans face in containing a dual-threat quarterback who knows the organization well. Watson's ability to extend plays with his legs and make quick decisions through the air requires disciplined defense and tight coverage. While the emotional narrative of Watson's return adds intrigue, Ryans' primary concern is tactical: limiting Watson's impact and securing a crucial win to bolster Houston's playoff chances.
Originally reported by yahoo.