There are times, like the lopsided win over the Tennessee Titans earlier this season, when quarterback Deshaun Watson seemed comfortable and confident and was competent and productive in a Browns offense that seemed to fit him.

Then there are all the other times since Watson took over as the starter in the 12th game last season when just the opposite has been true.

So, then, why? What’s the deal?

I have said since the outset when Watson first arrived in a trade in March 2022 that I had severe doubts that Browns head coach/de-facto offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski could take himself and his own preferences out of the equation, such as for the attack he ran with the Minnesota Vikings and brought with him to Cleveland, and design an offense specifically to fit Watson’s skill set. And I think that is exactly what has happened. The offense is definitely not one that fully benefits and suits Watson, or that he seems to like. He looks confused and tentative.

Conversely, P.J. Walker, who has much less ability than Watson, looks comfortable and confident when he runs the offense.

Something is not right. More than that, it is very, very wrong. And it has to change — drastically so, and soon.

The Browns are paying Watson a fully-guaranteed $230 million over five years, and it isn’t working at all. It is an unmitigated disaster. It is hard to watch.

Watson should not play Sunday against the Seahawks in Seattle. He needs at least another week to get to the point where he has completely shaken his shoulder injury mentally.

Play Walker, for he gives the Browns the best chance to win. And the more he plays, the better he will get.

Steve King