The Cleveland Browns are rolling with Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback for the Sept. 13 regular season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars, a decision that has some folks scratching their heads and others saying, “told ya so.” This isn’t just a quiet announcement, either; it’s a move that’s stirring up major controversy in the Dawg Pound.
Watson’s Rough Preseason & Fan Backlash
This wasn’t some easy, undisputed coronation. Shedeur Sanders actually started over Watson in Cleveland’s second preseason game. When Watson finally hit the field in the third quarter of that game, he was met with boos from his own home crowd. You can’t make this stuff up. To make matters worse, his play didn’t exactly quiet the doubters: he went a dismal 5-for-12 passing with an interception. And who was he playing against? Buffalo Bills players fighting tooth and nail just to make the roster. That’s not exactly a confidence booster, is it?
Taking it Personally: Watson’s Comments and Cleveland’s Call
Watson, it seems, took the negativity to heart. He laid into fans during his postgame news conference, a move that rarely calms any storm. Despite his on-field struggles and those pointed comments, the Browns are sticking by their guy. The opinion making rounds is that Cleveland simply doesn’t care what you think about Watson starting. It’s a bold stance to take when your starting QB is booed by his own fans and publicly criticizes them before the regular season even kicks off. It screams “getting something out of that contract,” as one reaction put it.
The Social Media Storm Is Brewing
The chatter on social media is absolutely wild, and it paints a pretty clear picture of the division in Cleveland. Many believe the Browns are flat-out “not making the right football decision picking Deshaun Watson over Shedeur Sanders.” Others are wondering, “Did Deshaun Watson break Browns fans?” It’s a valid question after seeing the boos and his response.
Beyond the immediate starter debate, there’s already talk about “Will the Shedeur Sanders be the Browns starting quarterback by the home opener?” and whether “Can Shedeur Sanders win in the NFL?” People are questioning the team’s entire approach, asking “How do Cleveland Browns fans do it?” and even speculating “Why did Browns coach Todd Monken pick Deshaun Watson?” Some are even suggesting the Browns “should’ve just gone with Taylen Green.” The fantasy football implications are also huge with Watson getting the nod. And for those who love drama, the idea of Watson potentially taking on the man he replaced, Baker Mayfield, has everyone saying, “Get your popcorn ready.”
So, as the Browns gear up for their Sept. 13 opener against the Jaguars, every snap Watson takes will be under a microscope. It’s not just a game; it’s the beginning of a season that already feels like a powder keg.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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