Cleveland Browns Stick with Deshaun Watson Despite Calls for Change

The Cleveland Browns have decided to continue with Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback, even in the face of discussions among fans and media advocating his benching after a loss in the season opener. Coach Todd Monken reiterated on Monday that “I anticipate that Deshaun will be our starter.” Monken detailed his rationale for retaining Watson for Sunday’s matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, although this decision carries an expiration date.

The Cleveland Browns, despite the external pressure, have shown patience with Watson, which is expected to last until the Week 3 game against the Carolina Panthers.
Monken believes that Watson’s performance in the 34-10 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars, after a long absence of 693 days from play, was sufficient to maintain his starting role.

“It’s only been two weeks that he’s gotten all the reps,” Monken explained, referencing the training camp’s quarterback competition that divided practice reps between Watson and Shedeur Sanders. Monken pointed out that Watson showed positive elements in the film, with aspects to build upon, alongside areas needing improvement. He noted how Watson responded well to some concepts when given time and comprehension during plays.

Although Watson completed 16 of 22 passes for 205 yards with one touchdown and one interception, Monken offers the closest to an endorsement he can. The expectation, however, is clear: Watson’s tenure as starter is conditional on improved performance against the Buccaneers.

“We got to play better around him. We got to call it better,” Monken stated. “And he’s going to play better.”

One significant factor intensifying pressure on Watson is the upcoming game against a formidable Tampa team led by quarterback Baker Mayfield. Cleveland selected Mayfield as their No. 1 draft pick in 2018 but traded him to the Buccaneers in July 2022 after tensions arose. Watson was the preferred choice during the 2022 acquisition from Houston, leaving Mayfield to eventually find success with the Buccaneers and Watson facing struggles with the Browns. A strong performance by Mayfield against Watson could prompt scrutiny of Cleveland’s 2022 decision.

A more pressing concern for the Browns is how Watson’s relationship with the fans might affect his performance, especially during home games. Watson’s previous encounters with fans resulted in boos, and his critical remarks about the booing have potentially strained his relationship with them further. The Browns have not played a home game since Watson’s comments, adding an element of tension for Week 3 against the Panthers.

Ultimately, Watson’s future as starter may rely heavily on the Browns’ upcoming games and his ability to rally support through improved performances.