Deshaun Watson's Backup? Browns Add Sanders To QB Room

David

3 min read

Post on May 12, 2025

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Deshaun Watson's Backup Battle Heats Up: Browns Add Veteran QB Joshua Dobbs

The Cleveland Browns have added another layer to their quarterback competition, signing veteran Joshua Dobbs to bolster the depth chart behind star (and controversial) Deshaun Watson. This move comes as a significant development, injecting intrigue into the battle for the backup QB position and potentially impacting the team's overall strategy for the upcoming season. The addition of Dobbs raises questions about the Browns' confidence in their current backup options and hints at a potential plan for handling Watson's workload, given his past suspension and the team's cautious approach to his playing time.

Why the Browns Needed Another Quarterback

The Browns' quarterback room, prior to Dobbs' arrival, consisted primarily of Deshaun Watson and Kellen Mond. While Watson is undoubtedly the starter, his recent history raises concerns about his availability and overall performance. His 2022 season was heavily impacted by an 11-game suspension due to off-field allegations. The team needs a reliable backup who can step in seamlessly if Watson faces any setbacks. Mond, a younger player with limited NFL experience, presented a risk. The Browns clearly felt the need for a more experienced and proven option.

Joshua Dobbs: A Veteran Presence

Dobbs, a former fourth-round pick, brings a level of NFL experience that Mond currently lacks. He's played for several teams, including the Pittsburgh Steelers and Tennessee Titans, giving him valuable experience in different offensive systems. While he hasn't been a full-time starter, he's shown flashes of competence and possesses a strong arm. His intelligence and ability to quickly learn new playbooks are also crucial assets in a backup quarterback. This makes him a much safer bet for a crucial backup role than a less experienced player.

The Implications for the Browns' 2024 Season

The signing of Dobbs signals several key things about the Browns' plans for the upcoming season:

• Risk Mitigation: The primary reason for this signing is risk mitigation. Having a capable backup like Dobbs minimizes the disruption should Watson face injury or suspension again.
• Strategic Depth: The Browns are clearly building depth at the quarterback position, showing a commitment to competing for a playoff spot.
• Potential for Watson Management: The addition of Dobbs might suggest a strategy of managing Watson's playing time throughout the season, ensuring his long-term health and effectiveness. This could involve resting him for certain games or limiting his snaps in others.

What Happens to Kellen Mond?

Dobbs' arrival casts a shadow over Kellen Mond's future with the team. While it doesn't automatically mean Mond will be released, his chances of making the final roster have significantly diminished. The competition for the backup spot is now much steeper. Mond will need to significantly impress in training camp and preseason games to secure his place on the team.

Conclusion: A Smart, Strategic Move

The Cleveland Browns' signing of Joshua Dobbs is a smart, strategic move designed to improve the team's depth and mitigate risks at the quarterback position. It shows a commitment to winning and a pragmatic approach to managing the complexities surrounding Deshaun Watson. While the competition for the backup role has intensified, Dobbs' experience and proven ability make him a strong contender. The upcoming training camp will be crucial in determining the final pecking order in the Browns' QB room. Stay tuned for further updates as the season approaches.