Deshaun Watson didn’t hesitate last week when asked if he still sees himself as one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks.
“Of course,” he said. “No doubt.” However, there is growing evidence to suggest otherwise.
Watson’s performance on Sunday was far from impressive, showing none of the elite qualities expected and raising concerns that the Browns may have made a huge mistake by signing him to a $230 million, fully guaranteed contract.
He was uncertain, shaky, and inaccurate in his first game since breaking a bone in his throwing shoulder last November and undergoing surgery. The Browns suffered a 33-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
Watson missed open receivers, held onto the ball too long on some plays, and left the pocket too early on others.
While it’s only one game, and Watson showed resilience by being sacked six times and hit 17 times, he did little to ease concerns that the Browns might need to consider other options if his performance doesn’t improve quickly.
In just his 13th start for Cleveland in three years, Watson struggled to find a rhythm in a new offensive system meant to highlight his strengths.
He ended the game with 24 completions on 45 attempts for 169 yards, one touchdown, two interceptions, and a low 51.1 rating—far from what the Browns need.
“It’s never a one-man show,” coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday, defending Watson more than the Browns’ offensive line did on Sunday.
The Browns decided to have Watson sit out the preseason games, a choice that remains questionable given his lack of playtime since 2020. But that decision can’t be changed now, and the team can only hope he improves starting in Week 2 against Jacksonville.
Physically, Watson’s shoulder seemed to handle the game against Dallas well, and Stefanski said the quarterback came out of the game in good shape.
“Tired, like all of our guys, but he’s good,” Stefanski said.
Mentally, Watson may be struggling. He played with a heavy heart after recently losing his father and a former teammate.
