Jimmy Haslam’s Honest Take: Why the Deshaun Watson Trade Was a ‘Big Swing and Miss’ – We Welcome Your Accountability

The trade for Deshaun Watson by the Browns, which involved giving up three first-round picks and a hefty contract, is proving to be a significant misstep. Owner Jimmy Haslam acknowledged this during a recent league meeting, taking responsibility for the team’s decision-making.

Haslam’s candid remarks reflect a tough reality. He stated, "We took a big swing and missed with Deshaun. We thought we had the quarterback, but we didn’t. It was an entire organization decision, and it ends with Dee and I, so hold us accountable." This admission highlights the high stakes involved in NFL trades and the pressure on ownership to deliver results.

Currently, Watson remains on the roster but is unlikely to play in 2025 due to a torn Achilles. This injury, coupled with his poor performance on the field, has left the Browns in a precarious position. They need significant improvement at quarterback, and the resources spent on Watson are now a burden.

Statistics show that costly trades like this often lead to long-term repercussions for teams. According to a study by the NFL Players Association, teams that invest heavily in a single player, especially through trades, can struggle with team cohesion and future draft capital. The Browns may face a rebuilding phase now, having sacrificed critical future assets.

Moving forward, Haslam’s only course is to support his team as they attempt to recover from this setback. The situation serves as a cautionary tale for other franchises about the risks of aggressive trades.

For more on the implications of NFL trades, you can check out this NFL Players Association report.

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