An Epochal Open Letter from Quarterback Deshaun Watson to the Cleveland Browns, Fans, and the Whole Browns Community
To the Cleveland Browns organization, the Dawg Pound, and the entire city of Cleveland:
With a heart full of gratitude, contemplation, and humility, I write this letter to offer my heartfelt appreciation for your constant support, belief, and love throughout my time here. Being a member of the Cleveland Browns has been more than simply a chapter in my football career; it has been a transformative experience that has helped me grow not only as a player, but also as a man.
When I initially arrived in Cleveland, I realized I was joining a passionate and proud community. What I didn’t comprehend until I witnessed it personally was the depth of that devotion — the heartbeat of a city that lives and breathes football, proudly rallies around its team, and never gives up. That heartbeat helped me get through trials, injuries, and growing pains. It reminded me that I was not walking alone.
Thank you, Browns organization, for believing in me. Thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility of guiding this team and offensive. From ownership to the front office to Coach Stefanski and the entire coaching team, your trust and patience helped me recover my rhythm, purpose, and voice. You gave me room to grow, and that means everything.
Thank you to my locker room brothers for supporting me, pushing me, and sharing in the grind. This team is developing a unique bond that goes beyond wins and analytics. We did every single rep, huddle, every hard-fought yard together. And regardless of what happens next, those relationships will last forever.
To the Dawg Pound, my heartfelt gratitude. You are this team’s soul. You supported me through every high and low, and your songs, placards, tailgates, and unwavering energy buoyed me in ways I can’t even express. I’ve witnessed what this fanbase is capable of: loud, devoted, and infinite. That kind of commitment is not only unusual, but legendary.
Cleveland, you offered me more than just a jersey; you gave me a second opportunity. An opportunity to rebuild, concentrate, and improve in every manner. And for that, I will always be grateful. This city is based on toughness, heart, and resilience—and I’ve learned so much from walking among you, playing for you, and representing the name on the front of the jersey.
No matter where this adventure leads us, Cleveland will always be a part of my story. You’ve left an indelible impact on my profession and life, and I’ll be proud of it for the rest of my days.
With infinite appreciation and respect,
Deshaun Watson, Quarterback for the Cleveland Browns.