The Cleveland Browns’ victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Thursday Night Football was exciting for their fans. Not just for the excitement in the snow, but for beating their AFC North rivals and keeping their tiny playoff hopes alive.

However, Browns fans are generally realistic. The focus is really on the upcoming NFL draft and what the team does at the quarterback position. Most believe that QB Shedeur Sanders and teammate Travis Hunter are the top two options in the draft, but neither is likely going to Cleveland after the Week 12 win.

QB James Winston has continued his roller coaster career while being the Browns starter, but has three good games against one (against the Chargers) bad game.

With QB’s data Deshaun Watsons contract is known, it seems almost certain that he will be on the roster next season. Unlike in recent years, according to Albert Breer, this offseason will not be about building around Watson, but about what is best for the team, including Winston:

While many Cleveland fans will be frustrated that the goal was on Watson last season, it makes sense. They were contractually invested in him and, given his time in Houston, Watson gave them the best chance at a Super Bowl shot.

Now, heading into 2025, the Browns have seen enough of Watson to know he can no longer be counted on, coddled or planned for. Instead, a veteran (there are ten starters who will hit the free agent market) will get the chance to win the job.

Whether or not Winston is willing to return to compete with Watson or find a bigger contract and better opportunities elsewhere will be a huge story this season. If Cleveland’s decision-makers want Winston to return, extension negotiations for their current starter must be ongoing as the season comes to a close.

Starting with Dak Prescott at the top and ending with Baker Mayfield, there are 18 quarterbacks making $30 million or more per year. Geno Smith is next with $25 million Gardner Minshew ($12.5) and Sam Darnold ($10) the only other quarterbacks with double digits on the year. Where would Winston fit in that group after signing for $4 million this year?

Brown’s planned approach at quarterback is the most logical. Will they just dial it back while Watson and Winston battle it out in training camp and? Dorian Thompson-Robinson as the young backup or will we see a new competitor for Watson this offseason? Only time will tell.

Assuming Watson’s contract commits him to the teamwho do you think the other two QBs should be next year?