Rejuvenated Deshaun Watson could await Ravens in key early-season clash
Deshaun Watson appears to be gaining momentum in Cleveland's quarterback competition, potentially setting the stage for another Ravens-Browns showdown with AFC North implications early
The Baltimore Ravens officially know their 2026 schedule, and, as always, AFC North matchups are likely to shape playoff hopes for all four teams. Baltimore travels to Cleveland in Week 6 for the first of two meetings against the Browns , and while training camp remains months away, signs are beginning to point toward a familiar face potentially waiting under center. Deshaun Watson.
After multiple injury setbacks and years of uncertainty since arriving in Cleveland, Watson suddenly appears positioned to make one more push at reclaiming his place as the Browns' franchise quarterback. According to reports out of organized team activities, Watson has handled a significant portion of the first-team work while competing with Shedeur Sanders for Cleveland's starting role. The possibility immediately grabs attention from Baltimore's perspective.
The Ravens know exactly what Watson looks like when he's healthy and playing confidently. Back on November 12, 2023, Cleveland erased a second-half deficit and stunned Baltimore 33-31 in one of the more frustrating losses of Lamar Jackson's career. Watson battled through an ankle injury and delivered one of his better performances in a Browns uniform, throwing for 213 yards and adding 37 rushing yards while repeatedly extending drives with his legs.
The afternoon didn't start smoothly for Watson, who battled back. Kyle Hamilton intercepted Watson and returned it for a touchdown on Cleveland's opening possession. Watson completed just 6 of 20 first-half attempts as Baltimore built a lead.