Watson says boos at preseason game were personal, not performance-related
Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was booed during his first home appearance after returning from an Achilles injury and described the reaction as disrespectful and personal, while the team evaluates its starting quarterback options.
Deshaun Watson faced audible boos from Cleveland fans when he entered the second half of the Browns' 31-7 preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills, his first home game since tearing his right Achilles tendon in October 2024. Watson completed five of 12 passes for 35 yards and threw one interception in four second-half drives.
"I think the whole world knows it has nothing to do about the performance," Watson said, adding that the boos felt "a little bit more personal" and were "disrespectful."
He also recalled that fans had cheered when he was injured on the field, questioning the motivation behind the reaction. The quarterback is currently competing with Shedeur Sanders for the starting role, and head coach Todd Monken indicated a decision is expected early next week.
"It sucks," Monken told the University Hospitals Cleveland Browns Radio Network when asked about the boos. "You don't want to get booed. It comes with the territory. Play good football, and the crowd will respond positively."
The Browns will conclude their preseason against the New England Patriots on Thursday, before opening the 2026 regular season with road games in Jacksonville and Tampa Bay, and a home opener against the Carolina Panthers in Week 3.