The 2017 season for the Cleveland Browns was a pivotal moment defined by the quarterbacks who wore the orange helmet. While the year is often remembered for the dramatic emergence of Deshaun Watson, the path to that moment was littered with intriguing alternatives and critical decisions. Understanding the quarterback room in 2017 is essential to understanding the franchise's trajectory and the high-stakes gamble the organization took on Watson.
The Preseason Contest: Watson vs. Rosen
Heading into the 2017 regular season, the competition for the starting job was the most significant storyline in Cleveland. The Browns selected quarterback DeShone Kizer with the 52nd overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, providing an experienced option in the pocket. The true battle, however, was between Kizer and the first-overall pick, Deshaun Watson. Head coach Hue Jackson was tasked with managing the locker room dynamic between a rookie phenom and a drafted quarterback who had generated significant buzz.
Deshaun Watson: The Catalyst for Change
Deshaun Watson's impact was immediate and undeniable. Making his first career start in Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, the rookie orchestrated a thrilling 21-18 victory, showcasing a rare combination of poise, athleticism, and arm strength. Watson's ability to extend plays with his legs and deliver pinpoint throws under pressure provided a foundation the Browns had lacked for years. His performance in that debut game signaled a new era and solidified his role as the franchise's immediate future.
Key Performance Metrics
The Supporting Cast and Challenges
Watson's rookie success was tempered by the reality of a struggling offense. The offensive line was a significant weakness, subjecting the rookie to consistent pressure that hindered his efficiency. Furthermore, the receiving corps was inconsistent, with wide receiver Terrelle Pryor often being the primary target in a system that lacked the sophistication of top-tier offenses. These limitations prevented the Browns from fully capitalizing on Watson's talent, resulting in a 5-11 record despite his individual brilliance.
Rex Burkhead and the Backup Plan
While Watson was the story, running back Rex Burkhead played a crucial role in the Browns' 2017 campaign. Tasked with the primary backup role behind Isaiah Crowell, Burkhead became the team's most reliable offensive weapon. His steady presence and ability to convert in short-yardage situations provided a critical safety valve for Watson. In Week 16, Burkhead's performance against the New York Jets was a masterclass in efficiency, highlighting the value of a competent backup who could sustain drives when the starter was ineffective.
The Week 16 Decision and Its Ramifications
A critical inflection point arrived in Week 16 when head coach Hue Jackson benched Deshaun Watson in favor of DeShone Kizer during a loss to the Jets. This decision sent shockwaves through the league and revealed the fragile nature of the quarterback competition. While Kizer played poorly upon his return, the move signaled internal discord and a lack of full confidence in Watson from the front office. The controversy surrounding this decision became a defining narrative of an otherwise disappointing season.
