How the Browns can still make the NFL Playoffs with Deshaun Watson

The Cleveland Browns retained some slim postseason odds by defeating Tom Brady the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at home in Week 12. Deshaun Watson returns in Week 13.

With a win over Tampa Bay, the Cleveland Browns improved their record to 4-7, just a few games out of the NFL Playoff race in the AFC. As things currently stand, the New York Jets and Cincinnati Bengals are tied for the final postseason spot at 7-4.

Per FiveThirtyEight, the Browns have just a 7 percent chance to make the playoffs, even after Sunday’s victory. But what that percentage can’t take into account is the return of starting quarterback Deshaun Watson, who missed the first 11 games of the season due to a suspension stemming from sexual assault allegations.

When does Deshaun Watson return?

Deshaun Watson was suspended 12 games before the start of the regular season. He will return in Week 13 against his old team, the Houston Texans. The Browns will likely be favored for that contest, given Lovie Smith’s squad is struggling mightily in a race to the bottom for the No. 1 overall pick.

Watson was suspended over allegations of sexual assault.

Can Browns make the playoffs?

The likelihood of Cleveland making the playoffs is a longshot, for sure. Deshaun Watson hasn’t played in quite some time, and even if you disregard your moral compass (which you shouldn’t) in this situation, it’s fair to expect some rust.

Cleveland’s schedule does have some winnable games down the stretch, and had they fared better with Jacob Brissett early on, perhaps a run with Watson would be more attainable. Wins over the Texans, Saints and Steelers should be expected (though at Pittsburgh to end the year will be tough). Matchups against the Ravens, Bengals and Commanders will be tougher to achieve, even with a Pro Bowl-caliber quarterback in tow.