Jameis Winston could be key to Browns’ position at NFL trade deadline

The Cleveland Browns’ season took an unexpected turn when the team lost starting quarterback Deshaun Watson to a torn Achilles in Week 7. The Browns called upon Jameis Winston to start their Week 8 game against the Baltimore Ravens. The quarterback change seemed to rejuvenate the team as Cleveland pulled off an upset by beating the Ravens 29-24.

Now 2-6 on the season, the Browns are still far from being legitimate contenders. But with the NFL trade deadline fast approaching, Cleveland must decide on a strategy. Winston’s play could ultimately dictate what the team does at the deadline, according to Ian Rapoport on NFL.com. If Winston leads the Browns to another win on Sunday, they might choose not to sell.

There are several teams in a similar position, so the results from Week 9 could go a long way in determining which players will be available before the November 5 deadline. But Cleveland appeared to be playing another losing season before Winston took over. The Browns have already traded Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills, which seems to indicate that the team is willing to sell any valuable players.

Then, Winston got the start in Week 8 and immediately dominated Deshaun Watson’s best effort. The team scored 29 points against the Ravens. The Browns’ previous high was just 18. Winston threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns against Baltimore. Watson had not had 200 passing yards in a game in 2024 and has thrown just five total touchdowns in seven games this season.

Can Jameis Winston save the Browns’ season?

Winston’s strong performance likely ended Watson’s time with the Browns. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has adamantly backed Winston as the team’s starter moving forward. Obviously, Cleveland is a better team with Jameis under center. But the Browns still sit in last place in the AFC North. The quarterback’s play and, therefore, the atmosphere in Cleveland have improved, but is it enough to change the franchise’s trade deadline strategy?

Unfortunately for the Browns, they only have one game left before a decision is made. A decision that could have lasting consequences. And this is the organization that handed out one of the worst contracts in NFL history, so decision-making is not their strong suit. On the other hand, not even the sky can limit the Winston-led Browns.

Cleveland will face the Los Angeles Chargers at home in Week 9. LA improved to 4-3 after beating the injury-ravaged New Orleans Saints in Week 8. Another marquee performance from Winston could encourage the Browns to hold on until the deadline. .