Browns coach says Watson's preseason outburst was a brief setback, not a confidence issue

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken said quarterback Deshaun Watson's reaction to boos during a recent preseason game was a short-lived setback rather than a lasting confidence problem. Monken told radio hosts Ken Carman and Anthony Lima that Watson was “not in a great headspace” after the game but that the incident was a “speed bump” and a “blip on the radar.”

"He said he was frustrated and didn’t handle it the right way, but after talking with me he felt it was off his chest and he’s ready to play great football," Monken said.

Monken added that he trusts Watson’s assessment that he is now fine and emphasized the importance of a “verbal contract” that the coaching staff backs its players. He noted that fan criticism is understandable but reiterated that the team’s focus is on winning and delivering quality football.

"The fans just want us to win and play good football. I understand the frustration, but we’re committed to giving them a great product on the field," Monken said.

The Browns will begin the regular season on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday.