Full Breakdown
Browns Stick With Deshaun Watson as Week 2 Starter Despite Rough Opener
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Core Event – Week-2 Quarterback Decision
Cleveland head coach Todd Monken announced that veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson will start the Browns’ Week 2 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The decision follows Watson’s first regular-season appearance in 693 days, which ended in a 34-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Background & Context
Watson was acquired by Cleveland in a March 2022 trade and signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract. He missed the 2025 season after tearing his Achilles in October 2024 and re-tearing it in January 2025. A preseason competition with rookie Shedeur Sanders concluded with Monken naming Watson the starter after late-preseason struggles against the Buffalo Bills and a contentious fan reaction.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Jacksonville 34, Cleveland 10.
- Watson: 16-of-22 passing for 205 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT; 38 rushing yards; five sacks, 20-yard loss, one fumble.
- Browns recorded 11 penalties for 75 yards, including three that nullified a potential scoring drive.
- The team managed only five first-downs in the first half and was 0-for-4 on third-down attempts.
- At halftime the Browns trailed 24-0, matching their worst halftime shutout in the past 35 years (ESPN Research).
Official Statements & Responses
Monken emphasized that the Week 1 performance does not fully reflect Watson’s abilities. After reviewing film, he said the quarterback showed “some really good things” and “things you can build on,” while noting areas that need improvement.
NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that Monken “anticipates” Watson starting, but also expressed uncertainty, saying he “doesn’t know” whether the Browns will stick with him for Week 2.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Analysts differ on how secure Watson’s position is. Some suggest a second poor outing could prompt a switch to Sanders; others argue benching Watson after a single loss would be premature given his contract and limited practice reps. No official timeline has been provided for a potential quarterback change.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I anticipate Deshaun will be our starter.” — Todd Monken, Cleveland head coach
- “We did exactly what we wanted to start the game,” — Todd Monken, Cleveland head coach
- “It's only been two weeks he's gotten all the reps. And there were some really good things on film,” — Todd Monken, Cleveland head coach
What’s Next
The Browns will travel to Tampa Bay for Week 2, with Watson slated to lead the offense. Monken expects the team to “play better around him” and improve execution. A second loss could increase pressure to consider Sanders for the home opener against the Carolina Panthers.