Story perspectives

Browns name Deshaun Watson Week 1 starter despite fan backlash

8/28/2026

Summary

Watson Starts Week 1

The Cleveland Browns named Deshaun Watson the Week 1 starting quarterback despite fan opposition.
Head coach Todd Monken said he chose Watson because of his ability to move the ball.
Watson’s $230 million fully guaranteed five-year contract, signed March 2022, was cited as a key factor.
Watson will start the season opener on Sept. 13 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Summary

Watson Engages Fans

Watson signed autographs and selfies with Browns fans before the preseason finale, easing tensions.
Team officials hope Watson’s Week 1 and Week 2 wins will win over skeptical ticket-buyers.
The franchise targets its first 2-0 start since 1993, a milestone tied to Watson.
Owner Jimmy Haslam previously called Watson a “big swing and miss,” showing lingering doubts.
Protesters taped signs to Jim Brown’s statue reading “$280,000,000 27+ Victims Zero Supporters” and “Damage To City & Franchise.”

History

Historical Context

Art Modell announced a 1995 move to Baltimore; lawsuits led the NFL to deactivate the Browns in 1996, reactivating them in 1999. Chronic quarterback turnover persisted until March 2022, when Cleveland traded six draft picks for Deshaun Watson and signed a fully guaranteed $230 million contract. The deal provoked protests from owner Jimmy Haslam and fans, echoing the 1995 relocation backlash.

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Watson Starts Week 1

The Cleveland Browns named Deshaun Watson the Week 1 starting quarterback despite fan opposition.
Head coach Todd Monken said he chose Watson because of his ability to move the ball.
Watson’s $230 million fully guaranteed five-year contract, signed March 2022, was cited as a key factor.
Watson will start the season opener on Sept. 13 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

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