Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 24
Deshaun Watson Apologizes to Browns Fans After 36-Yard Preseason Debacle, Keeps $230 Million Starting Job
Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 24

Deshaun Watson Apologizes to Browns Fans After 36-Yard Preseason Debacle, Keeps $230 Million Starting Job

3 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Aug 24

Summary

  • Two days after calling fan boos “disrespectful,” Deshaun Watson said his emotions “got the best of me” and apologized to Cleveland supporters after being named the Browns’ starting quarterback.
  • The backlash followed Watson’s 5-for-12, 36-yard outing with an interception in a 31-7 preseason loss to Buffalo, when fans booed him off the field.
  • Todd Monken said Watson’s remarks would not affect the quarterback competition with Shedeur Sanders, then quickly confirmed Watson as QB1.
  • Watson’s apology lands against years of frustration over his five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed deal: he has never played more than seven games in a Browns season and has thrown 19 touchdowns against 12 interceptions.

Insights

Can early-season wins and a public apology truly erase the deep-rooted tension between Deshaun Watson and Cleveland's highly frustrated fanbase?
Will Watson's massive guaranteed contract force the Browns to keep him starting even if backup Shedeur Sanders consistently outplays him?