3 Dark Horse Deshaun Watson Replacements After Injury

3. Matt Ryan

One dark horse candidate who hasn't ruled out an NFL return is none other than Matt Ryan.

The former Boston College product has spent the 2023 campaign as a CBS analyst but told SiriusXM NFL Radio back in May that he'd be open to a comeback if the stars aligned. He even added that he's learned to "not shut any doors" after spending 15 years in the league.

""You never know what's going to happen in [the NFL]. Anything could shake out, and so we'll see what happens.""

- Matt Ryan on an NFL comeback

If Ryan is still open to the idea six months later, the Browns need to be blowing up his phone right now. The 38-year-old likely has more juice left in the tank than most available options, having just averaged 254.8 passing yards with the Colts in 2022 — ninth-most in the NFL for a QB with at least 12 starts.

And even though his performance last year was far from his best, you can chalk that up to Indy's entire offensive scheme being a disaster. With Cleveland possessing a strong O-line and pass-catchers, the Exton, PA native would have all the tools he needs for success.

Considering how a Super Bowl title also eluded Ryan throughout his career, it's clear that an agreement with the Browns would be mutually beneficial.

Signing up for Bet365 could also be mutually beneficial for sports bettors. New users who register through the Factory of Sadness link and place a first wager of just $5 will receive $150 in bonus bets no matter what! Click below to get started today.

In other Browns news: