Browns face decision on Deshaun Watson after poor performance and fan reaction

Cleveland head coach Todd Monken is set to announce the team’s starting quarterback on Monday, and he indicated that quarterback Deshaun Watson’s recent performance and comments will not be a deciding factor. Watson, who appeared solid in the preseason opener against the Chicago Bears, struggled in the regular-season loss to the Buffalo Bills and addressed a crowd of boos during the post-game press conference.

Watson said the boos were “a little bit more personal than that” and described the reaction as disrespectful, adding that he would “move on” and trust that “the Lord puts us in situations for a reason.” He also referenced the crowd’s reaction when he suffered an Achilles injury in 2024, noting that fans had cheered at the time.

The Browns have started Watson in 19 games, posting a 9–10 record when he has played, with a 61.2% completion rate, 3,365 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, 12 interceptions and an 80.7 passer rating. By comparison, rookie Dillon Gabriel posted an 80.8 rating in limited action last season. Watson’s contract costs the team roughly $12 million per start, and the trade that brought him to Cleveland involved three first-round picks.

Analysts note that the team’s early schedule includes road games in Jacksonville and Tampa, suggesting that a strong showing could improve Watson’s standing, while continued struggles may prompt the Browns to consider alternatives.