Herm Edwards said Deshaun Watson is "behind the eight ball" after the Browns quarterback called fan boos "disrespectful" following Cleveland's 31-7 preseason loss to Buffalo.
Edwards argued a quarterback must keep leading with energy and positivity regardless of outside pressure, saying Watson cannot let hostility from fans affect how he carries himself with teammates.
Shedeur Sanders strengthened Edwards' case in the competition by going 9-of-11 for 74 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while Watson finished 5-of-12 for 35 yards and a pick after entering in the third quarter.
Todd Monken still has not named a Week 1 starter and said Watson's postgame remarks will not influence the decision, leaving the broader issue centered on whether Watson can lead amid a strained relationship with Cleveland fans.