The Cleveland Browns will finally be able to start their season with Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback, and Nick Chubb has shut down any fears it could hinder him.
The running back is one of the largest offensive threats for the Browns, picking up 6,341 rushing yards and running for 48 touchdowns since being drafted back in 2018. Chubb ran for 12 touchdowns last season, but they all came in the first 11 games, as he failed to score once Watson was reintroduced.
Watson missed the first 11 games after serving a suspension, and returned for the final six games of the NFL season. Chubb's drop off in touchdowns raised questions about their ability to play together, but the running back isn't concerned as they were forced to figure out the offense at short notice.
"You can’t really look at the numbers ," Chubb said, via the Akron Beacon Journal. "Twelve is the most I’ve ever had since I’ve been here. I don’t think it had much to do with it.
"I think we did have to figure some things out, get the kinks out on offense and I don’t think I’m hindered by Deshaun at all. . . . No, I’m not worried at all. I can’t control what I can’t control. When the ball is in my hand, I have full control, so I’m not worried about anything."
Chubb is one of the best running backs in the NFL, regularly finishing second in rushing yards across the entire league. Watson is also one of the brightest quarterbacks, and if they can work on their offense this offseason then the Browns could be a real threat.
The running back signed a three-year, $36.6 million contract extension with the Browns in July 2021, meaning that the franchise have a decision to make over his future this time next season. But they're certainly tied down with Watson, after they gave him a record contract last March.
Watson signed a fully guaranteed, five-year, $230 million deal with the Browns in March 2022, making it the largest contract and most guaranteed money in NFL history. The total figure has since been surpassed by the likes of Jalen Hurts and Lamar Jackson, but the guarantees still set it apart from the rest.
The quarterback will still have some bad habits to iron out, after missing the entire 2021 season. Watson may have missed 28 NFL games, but once he gets back to his best then the Browns will be dangerous.
Watson went 3-3 last season when returning to the starting line-up, and threw for seven touchdowns while running one in himself. His pass percentage, average distance and passer rating were at an all time low, but he will look to put that right this season.
