Projecting stat lines for NFL quarterbacks in new homes for 2022

Oct 6, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) shake hands after a game at NRG Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)
Oct 6, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) and Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) shake hands after a game at NRG Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports) /
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NFL 2022
NFL 2022: Quarterback Deshaun Watson of the Cleveland Browns speaks during a press conference at CrossCountry Mortgage Campus on March 25, 2022 in Berea, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images) /

Projecting stat lines for NFL quarterbacks in new homes

2. Deshaun Watson, Cleveland Browns

I’m not going to comment on his off-field issues.  It’s a sad situation and I’m unsure what will happen in the way of a potential suspension.  I’ll make this projection as if he’ll play the entire 2022 NFL season.

On the field, there is no denying Watson’s talent.  He’s got Hall of Fame potential and is going into a fantastic situation in Cleveland, nearly the opposite of what he had in Houston.

Cleveland has an elite running game, excellent offensive line, talented defense, and competent pass catchers.

Seeing Baker Mayfield have success on this team back in 2020 makes me think how well Watson can play in 2022 and beyond.

Even in the AFC North, I think the Browns are going to win double-digit games and compete for the number one overall seed in the AFC. Obviously, Watson could be suspended, but he will surely at some point play a full season for the Browns.

Between his efficiency through the air and ability to make plays with his legs, Watson is the full package, and perhaps closer to Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes than some people think.

Unless injuries derail this team, there is no reason for me to believe they can’t be wildly successful in 2022 and beyond.

I think giving Deshaun Watson time to throw and a strong running game is going to unlock a new dimension of his play.

Projection: 3,800 yards, 28 touchdowns, five interceptions. ~500 rushing yards, 5 touchdowns. Browns record: 12-5