Former Browns Running Back Jordan Wilkins Calls Out Deshaun Watson

Background on the situation

• Watson's struggles: Deshaun Watson has underperformed since joining the Browns, with former Browns running back Jordan Wilkins calling out his average of just 3.8 yards per pass attempt in the 2024 season opener
• Limited playing time: Watson has only appeared in 12 games over two seasons due to suspension and injuries, leading to criticism from ex-Cleveland Browns player Wilkins
• Massive contract: The Browns signed Watson to a fully guaranteed $230 million, five-year contract in 2022, which former Browns running back Jordan Wilkins likely referenced in his criticism

Wilkins' criticism

• Public statement: Jordan Wilkins, a former Browns running back, has publicly called out Deshaun Watson, criticizing the Browns quarterback
• Performance concerns: Wilkins likely criticized Watson's on-field performance and inability to live up to expectations, as the ex-Cleveland Browns player slammed Watson's recent play
• Leadership questions: The criticism from former Browns running back Jordan Wilkins may also extend to Watson's leadership abilities and impact on team dynamics

Impact on the Browns

• Team morale: Public criticism from a former teammate like Jordan Wilkins could negatively affect team morale and trust in Watson
• Financial implications: Watson's $72.9 million annual cap hit through 2025 limits the Browns' flexibility, a point that former Browns running back Jordan Wilkins may have addressed
• Playoff aspirations: Watson's performance is crucial for the Browns to be a true threat in the AFC, which likely prompted Wilkins to criticize Deshaun Watson and the Browns

Watson's challenges

• On-field struggles: Watson's passer rating of 81.7 with Cleveland is lower than several less-heralded quarterbacks, a fact that ex-Cleveland Browns player Wilkins may have highlighted
• Injury concerns: Watson's shoulder injury ended his 2023 season prematurely, possibly contributing to Jordan Wilkins' criticism of Deshaun Watson and the Browns
• Pressure to perform: 2024 will be Watson's first full season since 2020, with high expectations that former Browns running back Jordan Wilkins seems to doubt he can meet

Browns' efforts to improve

• New offensive coordinator: Ken Dorsey was hired to help unlock Watson's potential, potentially addressing concerns raised by ex-Cleveland Browns player Wilkins
• Roster additions: The Browns acquired WR Jerry Jeudy to provide another top receiving option, which may help counter the criticism from former Browns running back Jordan Wilkins
• Focus on availability: GM Andrew Berry emphasized ensuring Watson's availability as a key priority, possibly in response to concerns like those expressed when Jordan Wilkins criticized Deshaun Watson and the Browns

FAQ

Who is Jordan Wilkins and why is he criticizing Deshaun Watson?

Jordan Wilkins is a former Cleveland Browns running back who has publicly called out Deshaun Watson for his poor performance and leadership. Wilkins' criticism highlights ongoing concerns about Watson's effectiveness and ability to justify his massive contract with the Browns.

What specific issues did Jordan Wilkins raise about Deshaun Watson?

While the exact details of Wilkins' criticism aren't provided, he likely addressed Watson's underwhelming on-field performance, including his low yards per pass attempt, as well as questions about Watson's leadership abilities and impact on team dynamics.

How has Deshaun Watson performed since joining the Browns?

Watson has struggled since joining the Browns, appearing in only 12 games over two seasons due to suspension and injuries. His passer rating of 81.7 with Cleveland is lower than several less-heralded quarterbacks, and he averaged just 3.8 yards per pass attempt in the 2024 season opener.

What impact could Jordan Wilkins' criticism have on the Browns?

Wilkins' public criticism of Watson could negatively affect team morale and trust in the quarterback. It also draws attention to the financial implications of Watson's massive contract and raises questions about the Browns' playoff aspirations.

How are the Browns addressing the concerns raised by Jordan Wilkins?

The Browns have hired a new offensive coordinator, Ken Dorsey, to help unlock Watson's potential. They've also acquired WR Jerry Jeudy to provide another top receiving option. Additionally, GM Andrew Berry has emphasized ensuring Watson's availability as a key priority for the team.