The Cleveland Browns are embarking on a new season with a familiar, yet often-debated, figure at the helm: Deshaun Watson. Following a challenging period marked by extensive injuries and a previous suspension, the team has officially confirmed Watson as their starting quarterback for the upcoming regular season, as widely reported by various media outlets. This decision reflects the organization's ongoing commitment to the player they acquired with a significant investment, despite his inconsistent performance on the field. The focus now shifts to how Watson will lead the team and address the lingering skepticism from a fan base yearning for sustained success.
Browns Announce Watson as QB1; Challenges and Expectations Ahead
On a recent Monday, the Cleveland Browns formally announced their decision to name Deshaun Watson as the starting quarterback for Week 1 of the 2026 regular season. This declaration, initially reported by the Cleveland Plain Dealer, solidifies the team's commitment to Watson under the leadership of new head coach Todd Monken. The internal announcement to the team on Monday followed a competitive training camp where Watson vied for the top spot against Shedeur Sanders, with both quarterbacks sharing first-team reps during practices and preseason matchups.
The Browns' pursuit of stability at the quarterback position led them to acquire Watson from the Houston Texans before the 2022 season, signing him to a substantial five-year, $230 million contract. However, his tenure has been plagued by a significant suspension and a series of injuries, limiting him to just nine wins in 19 starts. Notably, Watson missed the entire previous season, 2025, recovering from two Achilles surgeries. He initially suffered a torn right Achilles tendon in October 2024, and a recurrence during rehabilitation necessitated a second operation.
During Watson's absence, the team saw a rotation of quarterbacks, including Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders. Sanders, a fifth-round pick in 2025, stepped in as a rookie, throwing seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions over eight games. As the 2026 season approaches, the Browns will kick off with two away games: September 13th against the Jacksonville Jaguars, followed by a matchup in Tampa Bay. Their first home game is scheduled for September 27th against the Carolina Panthers.
Watson faces mounting pressure to perform, particularly from a fan base that expressed its dissatisfaction through boos during a recent preseason game against Buffalo. He completed 5 of 12 passes for 36 yards and an interception in that game. Reflecting on the crowd's reaction, Watson remarked that it felt "personal" and "disrespectful," indicating his intention to keep his feelings private within his family. The quarterback will turn 31 the day after the Week 1 opener.
Head coach Todd Monken, who previously served as the Baltimore Ravens' offensive coordinator for three seasons before taking on his first head coaching role with the Browns, acknowledged Watson's competitive spirit. Monken stated that playing better football is the key to winning over the home crowd, while also expressing understanding for Watson's emotional response. He noted, "I see the competitor in him. I see the every-day work he puts in, and he wants to be back... I think the moment just got him after the game, and it can get all of us."
The upcoming season represents a critical juncture for Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns. Despite his injury history and the team's struggles since his arrival, the decision to name him the starting quarterback signals a renewed belief in his abilities to lead the franchise. This move emphasizes the organization's commitment to the significant investment made in Watson, hoping that a full recovery and a fresh start under a new coaching regime will unlock his full potential. The team and its fans will be eagerly watching to see if Watson can not only silence the critics but also deliver the consistent, high-level performance needed to turn the Browns into a formidable contender.