Deshaun Watson's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Deshaun Watson.

Deshaun Watson is a professional American football quarterback currently playing for the Cleveland Browns. He gained prominence playing college football for the Clemson Tigers, where he led the team to a national championship in 2016. In 2017, Watson was drafted in the first round by the Houston Texans, marking the beginning of his NFL career.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1961: Fran Tarkenton's Achievement

In 1961, Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton became the first rookie to pass for at least four touchdowns and rush for one touchdown in a game, a feat Deshaun Watson later matched.

1997: Last Player to Lead the League

In 1997, Jeff George of the Oakland Raiders was the last player before Deshaun Watson in 2020 to lead the league in passing yards on a team with at least 12 losses.

2002: David Carr Texans Quarterback

In 2002, David Carr received the PFWA All-Rookie Team award becoming the first Texans quarterback to receive the award.

2003: Jason White's First Davey O'Brien Award

In 2003, Jason White was the player before Deshaun Watson in 2016, to win the Davey O'Brien Award in consecutive years.

2004: Jason White's Second Davey O'Brien Award

In 2004, Jason White was the player before Deshaun Watson in 2016, to win the Davey O'Brien Award in consecutive years.

2006: Sportradar began tracking air yards

In Week 1 against the Cowboys in 2024, Deshaun Watson had 0 completions on 10+ passes thrown 15 or more yards downfield, becoming the first quarterback since 2006 when Sportradar began tracking air yards to do so.

2011: Clemson's First ACC Championship Since 2011

In 2015, Deshaun Watson led the Tigers to a 45–37 win, Clemson's first ACC championship since 2011.

2014: Recognition as Player to Watch and Top Recruit

In 2014, Deshaun Watson earned accolades such as Junior All-American, 2014 Player to Watch and 2014 Top 100 Recruit due to his outstanding performance in his junior year.

2014: Ranked Top Quarterback Recruit

In 2014, Deshaun Watson was ranked as the top quarterback recruit for the 2014 class by ESPN 300, solidifying his status as a highly sought-after talent.

2015: Led Clemson to Undefeated Regular Season

In 2015, Deshaun Watson led Clemson to an undefeated 12-0 regular season and a #1 ranking in the polls, showcasing his leadership and skills.

2015: Heisman Trophy Finalist and Award Wins

In 2015, Deshaun Watson was named a finalist for the Heisman Trophy, finished third in the balloting, won the Davey O'Brien Award, and was named ACC Player and Offensive Player of the Year, recognizing his outstanding achievements during the season.

2016: Orange Bowl Victory and Game MVP Honors

In 2016, Deshaun Watson led Clemson to a 37–17 victory over the Oklahoma Sooners in the Orange Bowl, earning game MVP honors.

2016: Leading Clemson to a National Championship

In 2016, Deshaun Watson led the Clemson Tigers to a national championship, a significant achievement in his college football career.

2016: College Football Playoff National Championship Game

In 2016, Deshaun Watson played in the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the #2 Alabama Crimson Tide where he set the record for most total yards in national championship game history, with 478 yards (405 passing / 73 rushing) against the nation's best defense.

2016: Davey O'Brien Award and Heisman Trophy Candidate

In the fall of 2016, Deshaun Watson won the Davey O'Brien Award for the second consecutive year and was named one of the five Heisman Trophy candidates.

2017: CFP National Championship Victory

In 2017, Clemson, led by Deshaun Watson, defeated Alabama 35–31 in the College Football Playoff National Championship, securing Clemson's second national championship.