Deshaun Watson enters his first real season as a starter for the Cleveland Browns. The Ohio franchise is hoping for a lot from their quarterback. Even Watson himself believes in a return to old strength.

The Cleveland Browns have high expectations for their star quarterback Deshaun Watson ahead of the upcoming NFL season. “I think this is going to be a big year from him professionally and personally,” general manager Andrew Berry said.

He said impressions from practice so far are promising. “He’s in great shape physically. He’s been really good on the field. And I liked what he did off the field. I’m really looking forward to him,” Berry added.

The 27-year-old Watson is entering his first full season as a starter for the Browns. Last season he missed the first 11 games suspended after more than 20 women accused the quarterback of sexual assault.

Since Watson also missed the 2021 season with the Houston Texans because he tried to force a trade to another team before the allegations came to light and refused to continue playing for the Texans, he did not take the field in an NFL game for nearly two years between January 2021 and his Browns preseason debut on December 4, 2022.

Watson on allegations: ‘Low point in my life’

Watson’s lack of playing experience was noticeable; in six games with the quarterback, the Browns finished with three wins and three losses last year. Watson himself contributed 1,102 yards, seven touchdowns and five interceptions. He was far from his gala form with the Texans, when he led the league in yards in the 2020 season.

But Watson, like his GM, also believes he can have a much better season. “I feel really good, I feel comfortable with the guys, in the locker room, with the coaching staff, the organization and just the city of Cleveland,” he said. “To have the opportunity to go into the season with a full offseason, focused and concentrated, definitely feels good. “

Although the allegations against his person are legally closed, Watson had to pay a five million dollar fine and undergo therapy as a result of a settlement between the league and the players’ union NFLPA.

According to Watson, this time has left its mark on him. “The complete situation changed me,” he said, “I found myself in a situation where I just had to focus on myself, channel myself and really know who I’m surrounding myself with and who’s there for me and supporting me even when I’m at my lowest point, and the last couple of years have definitely been the lowest point in my life.”

However, he said he has found his way to deal with it. “It’s a part of life. I just grow from it, I learn from it. I look forward and continue to show my true character, my true personality and who I am,” he clarified.