Deshaun Watson's "QB Unplugged": A Unique Platform for Rising Stars

Glenville QB Ruel Tomlinson Jr., Photo By: Austin Souvanarath

While the spotlight often shines brightest on professional athletes, Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is redirecting that light to illuminate the paths of aspiring quarterbacks. Teaming up with elite QB coach Quincy Avery, Watson has launched a podcast series titled "QB Unplugged," which delves deep into the nuances of the quarterback position. But what sets this podcast apart is its emphasis on featuring high school quarterbacks from Northeast Ohio, providing them with a platform to share their journey and gain insights from one of the NFL's premier quarterbacks.

In addition to discussing strategies and breaking down film; the podcast is about understanding the journey of a quarterback at different stages - high school, college, and professional. It's about the challenges, the transitions, and the continuous learning that comes with the role.

In the inaugural episode, Watson and Avery sat down with Glenville Quarterback Ruel Tomlinson Jr., who had recently transferred from Walsh Jesuit. Tomlinson's move to Glenville, a team fresh off an undefeated season and a state championship, was not without its challenges. "I’m the new kid, I had to show everybody that I can play, I could be a leader, I can lead this team," Tomlinson shared. Watson, drawing parallels from his own experiences, emphasized the importance of building relationships with teammates and understanding them. "The football you know of course takes care of itself but I think the biggest thing for me was to kind of like you said get to know everybody," Watson reflected.

Episode 3 brought in St. Edward Quarterback Casey Bullock, a player from a team with back-to-back state championships under its belt. Unlike most, Bullock chose to present film where he believed he made mistakes, seeking critical feedback. Watson's advice was clear, "You never go wrong taking a profit. Take the check down, be able to take five, keep the chains moving." Avery, impressed by Bullock's approach, commented, "Your mindset, the way that you want to attack football, even your approach coming here today is so impressive for a young man."

The series promises more exciting episodes, with the Massillon Tigers' Twitter account hinting at an appearance by standout QB DaOne Owens. Owens, who has been instrumental in the Tigers' undefeated 7-0 run this season, is sure to bring more insights and learnings to the table.

Massillon QB DaOne Owens, Photo By: Austin Souvanarath

Watson's "QB Unplugged" is more than just a podcast; it's a testament to his commitment to giving back to the community in a meaningful way. In a world where the gap between professional athletes and their fans seems to be ever-widening, Watson's initiative bridges that gap, reminding us all of the power of mentorship, learning, and genuine connection.