Trade Rumors: Browns Eyeing Aaron Rodgers as Potential Replacement for Deshaun Watson
The Cleveland Browns may be preparing for life after Deshaun Watson, and the latest buzz suggests that four-time MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers could be on their radar for the 2025 season. As Watson’s tenure in Cleveland appears increasingly tenuous, the franchise might pivot to Rodgers as a short-term solution while they evaluate their long-term options at quarterback.
Watson’s Uncertain Future in Cleveland
Deshaun Watson’s stint with the Browns has been marred by inconsistency and injuries. After sustaining his second consecutive season-ending injury, the Browns’ front office has started to shift its tone. General Manager Andrew Berry, once resolute in his support of Watson, recently acknowledged that it’s “always possible” Watson might take another snap in Cleveland, though the financial realities of his contract leave little flexibility.
Watson is set to carry a massive $73 million cap hit in both 2025 and 2026, with no contractual escape routes for the Browns. Despite these financial constraints, the team might already be looking for alternatives, either through the draft or a stopgap veteran option like Aaron Rodgers.
Why Aaron Rodgers Makes Sense for the Browns
Aaron Rodgers, currently with the New York Jets, is reportedly a prime trade candidate heading into the offseason. At 41 years old, Rodgers is nearing the twilight of his career, but he still offers a level of experience and talent that could help stabilize Cleveland’s quarterback situation.
Rodgers’ 2025 base salary is just $2.5 million, a fraction of what the Browns would pay for a rookie quarterback drafted near the top of the first round. If the Jets are willing to move on from Rodgers, his trade cost could be minimal—likely no more than a late-round draft pick—making him an appealing option for a Browns team navigating financial challenges.
Rodgers’ Rocky Year in New York
Rodgers’ first season with the Jets didn’t go as planned. Struggling through poor performances and an injury setback, the veteran quarterback failed to meet expectations, prompting speculation that Jets ownership might prefer to move on. Reports suggest that Jets owner Woody Johnson considered benching Rodgers earlier this season, which could signal an openness to trading him during the offseason.
“The Jets will have to eat a ton of dead signing bonus money if [Rodgers] isn’t their quarterback next year,” Will Ragatz of Sports Illustrated noted. “But that’s not going to stop them from cutting or trading him and moving into a rebuild.”
The Browns’ Options
With a top-five draft pick likely on the horizon, Cleveland has the option of selecting a quarterback like Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward in April. However, rookie quarterbacks come with risks, and a top-tier draft selection would still carry a significant financial commitment.
Alternatively, the Browns could select a developmental quarterback in the second or third round and pair him with a veteran like Rodgers to ease the transition. Rodgers’ experience and leadership could serve as a bridge to the next era of Browns football, helping a young quarterback acclimate to the NFL.
Rodgers as a Short-Term Solution
While Aaron Rodgers may not be a multiyear solution, he represents a significant upgrade over the Browns’ current quarterback room. Watson’s continued struggles, Jameis Winston’s inconsistencies, and second-year QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson’s inexperience leave Cleveland without a reliable option under center.
Rodgers could provide stability, leadership, and a higher ceiling for the Browns’ offense in 2025. With some improvements to the offensive line and the addition of a playmaker or two, Rodgers could help the Browns regain their footing in the AFC North and compete for a playoff spot.
A Path Forward Without Watson
Trading for Rodgers would also signal the Browns’ readiness to move on from Watson, at least on the field. While the financial impact of Watson’s contract will linger, Rodgers’ presence could help Cleveland close the chapter on a disappointing era. Even if Rodgers isn’t the long-term answer, his arrival could buy the team time to find and develop their quarterback of the future.
The Cost of Acquiring Rodgers
Given Rodgers’ age and underwhelming season with the Jets, the cost to acquire him in a trade should be manageable. A Day 3 draft pick might be enough to bring Rodgers to Cleveland, especially if the Jets are eager to move on and avoid further financial commitments.
For the Browns, this could represent a low-risk, high-reward opportunity. Rodgers’ pedigree as a four-time MVP and Super Bowl champion makes him an enticing option, even if his best years are behind him.
Can Rodgers Revitalize the Browns?
Rodgers’ impact on the Browns would depend on several factors, including his health, the team’s offensive line improvements, and the development of their young receivers. However, his experience and skill set make him a better option than anyone currently on the roster.
Cleveland’s defense, which was the league’s top-ranked unit in 2023, could also benefit from more stability at quarterback. Fewer turnovers and better time of possession under Rodgers could help the defense return to elite form.
Closing the Book on Watson
While Deshaun Watson’s future in Cleveland remains uncertain, the potential trade for Aaron Rodgers offers the Browns a chance to turn the page. Rodgers might not lead the team to a Super Bowl, but his presence could help the franchise move past the Watson era and set the stage for a brighter future.
Whether Rodgers ends up in Cleveland or not, the rumors underscore the Browns’ urgency to find answers at the quarterback position. For now, all eyes are on the front office as they weigh their options and decide how to navigate the challenges ahead.