Deshaun Watson threw an interception on the Browns’ opening drive and finished with a touchdown, interception, and fumble in Cleveland’s 34-10 season-opening loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Browns head coach Todd Monken declined to name Watson the starting quarterback after the game, though he defended the veteran signal-caller’s performance.
Watson’s turnover on the first series came when Jaguars linebacker Foyesade Oluokun intercepted a pass at the 33-yard line, setting up Jacksonville’s offense for a quick scoring opportunity. Watson completed 16 of 22 passes for 205 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while also rushing for 38 yards. The Browns’ offense managed just 3 points in the first half and was penalized 11 times for 75 yards, contributing to their inability to sustain drives.
Monken acknowledged Watson’s struggles but emphasized broader team issues. "It really wasn't all him," Monken said. "Certainly could have called it better, certainly could have played better around him. Certainly there's plays I'm sure he wished he had back."
Offensive line and play-calling criticized
The Browns’ offensive line allowed five sacks, and the team converted just 1 of 8 third-down attempts. Running back Quinshon Judkins, a rookie expected to break out this season, managed only 33 rushing yards on 12 carries. Meanwhile, Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence completed 18 of 23 passes for 245 yards and four touchdowns, leading Jacksonville to a dominant victory.
Fan reaction and Watson’s past comments resurface
Watson drew attention earlier in the preseason when fans booed him during a game at EverBank Stadium, where he suffered an Achilles injury in 2024. "It's a disrespectful thing," Watson said of the fan reaction. "Last time I played on this field, I tore my Achilles. And that same fan base, they cheered when I got hurt."
Watson later apologized for his remarks, which have continued to cast a shadow over his tenure in Cleveland. Former NFL coach Rex Ryan publicly suggested Watson should have been benched, stating, "No way would I have started him."
Backup QB Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter’s postgame moment
After the game, backup quarterback Shedeur Sanders was seen embracing former Colorado teammate Travis Hunter, who played both offense and defense for Jacksonville. The moment drew mixed reactions from fans and media, with some praising the display of camaraderie and others questioning its relevance amid the team’s struggles.
Monken’s stance on Watson’s future unclear
Monken did not commit to Watson as the Week 2 starter, instead focusing on operational improvements. "Is getting in and out of the huddle, getting our subs in. Being up against it and saying that you're on the road, or the heat, or all that," he said. "That's just a bunch of excuses."
The Browns’ next game is scheduled for Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals.