Deshaun Watson’s Struggles and Fan Reactions

Quarterback Deshaun Watson faced criticism after a rough performance during a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, ending in a 31-7 loss. Watson completed five of 12 passes for 36 yards and threw one interception, resulting in boos from the fans, reminiscent of past regular-season games.

Watson took the fans’ reactions personally. In his post-game remarks, he expressed discontent with the crowd’s treatment, citing previous incidents involving his injuries. He highlighted an instance where fans celebrated his Achilles tear, an injury that caused him to miss the latter part of the 2024 season. He re-injured the same Achilles, leading to his absence in the entire 2025 season.

“The whole world knows it has nothing to do with the performance,” Watson stated. “It’s more personal than that, and I think it’s disrespectful. I’m going to keep my feelings internal with my family. Last time I played on this field, I tore my Achilles. That same fanbase cheered when I got hurt. So what does that have to do with performance? When someone gets hurt, especially from your own city, and they cheer?

While Watson’s critique of the fans stirred controversy, head coach Todd Monken attempted to calm the situation. He described Watson’s reaction as an emotional response to the moment, not indicative of his character. Monken acknowledged Watson’s dedication as a competitor striving to regain his form.

“He emptied his heart a little bit, and I don’t think that says who he is,” Monken commented. “I see the competitor in him and the effort he puts in daily. He wants to get back to where he was, and that’s hard. The moment got to him after the game, as it can to all of us.”

Monken added that Watson’s comments don’t affect his decision on Cleveland’s starting quarterback. Besides Watson’s struggles, Shedeur Sanders delivered a solid performance, completing nine of eleven passes for 74 yards, scoring one touchdown, and throwing an interception. However, Monken has not disclosed any preference for the starter during Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13.