Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson
’At Least Applaud the Guy’ — NFL Analyst Drops Blunt Advise to Browns Fans After Deshaun Watson Helps Secure Thrilling Win 1
’At Least Applaud the Guy’ — NFL Analyst Drops Blunt Advise to Browns Fans After Deshaun Watson Helps Secure Thrilling Win
The Cleveland Browns started the 2026 season by disappointing their fans with a season-opening loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Deshaun Watson was strongly criticized by fans and analysts, leading many to question whether he should remain the team’s QB1.
Watson’s poor performance also increased calls for Shedeur Sanders to receive an opportunity. However, the veteran quarterback made an impressive comeback against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday as the Browns secured a thrilling 23-19 victory.
Aug 15, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks to pass the ball against the Chicago Bears during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn ImagesAug 15, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks to pass the ball against the Chicago Bears during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
Aug 15, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) looks to pass the ball against the Chicago Bears during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
During CBS’ coverage of the lengthy weather delay, studio analyst Russell Wilson praised Watson’s response to the pressure and said:
“I think the best thing he’s done is respond. I think he’s responded in a big way. He’s put them in a chance to win this game.”
Fellow CBS analyst Bill Cowher praised first-year Browns head coach Todd Monken, along with Cleveland’s rookie receivers Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion. Cowher credited Monken for continuing to support Watson despite the growing calls for Sanders to replace him.
“I give a lot of credit to Todd Monken because he has stuck with him despite the overall noise you heard around him with benching him for Shedeur,” Cowher said.
Cowher also addressed the intense criticism Watson has received from Browns fans, who showered him with boos during the preseason. The former Steelers coach then delivered a direct message to Cleveland supporters ahead of the team’s home opener.
“Cleveland, at least applaud the guy, please,” Cowher said.
The victory was much needed for Monken because it offered some validation for his decision to remain patient with Watson. The head coach has faced intense criticism for that choice, particularly following Cleveland’s poor offensive showing against Jacksonville.
Watson completed 24 of his 30 passes for 238 yards and two touchdowns without throwing an interception against Tampa Bay. He helped Cleveland recover from a 16-6 deficit by connecting with Boston for a 55-yard touchdown and Blake Whiteheart for the go-ahead score. Although one strong performance will not completely silence the calls for Sanders, it should give Watson more time to prove himself as Cleveland’s starter.
The Browns will now return home with a 1-1 record, and Watson’s reception from the crowd will attract significant attention. Cowher believes the quarterback has earned at least some appreciation from Cleveland supporters.
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