The relationship between Deshaun Watson and the Cleveland Browns fan base continues to be strained. The quarterback faces criticism as he competes with Shedeur Sanders for the starting position. Watson’s performance and injuries have frustrated fans who expected more from his $230 million contract, with only 19 touchdown passes in 19 games. His time with the team has seen setbacks like suspension and multiple severe injuries.

Fan Reactions and Watson’s Response

During Watson’s latest game at Huntington Bank Field, fans expressed their dissatisfaction loudly. Despite Cleveland’s 24-10 win over the Washington Commanders, fans booed Watson. The quarterback did not hide his discontent with these reactions.

It’s a disrespectful thing, Watson said. And that same fan base, they cheered when I got hurt. So what does that have to do with anything about performance when a person gets hurt, especially for your own city?

Deshaun Watson feels he has attempted to win the fans over through his dedication on and off the field. However, he acknowledges that these efforts have not changed the fans’ opinions.

Competition with Shedeur Sanders

Sanders outperformed Watson in the recent game, completing 9 of 11 passes for 74 yards and a touchdown, alongside an interception. Meanwhile, Watson completed only 5 of 12 passes for 36 yards and threw an interception. Therefore, Coach Todd Monken emphasizes that winning the fans back involves playing better football.

They don’t want to get booed. It’s about playing good football, Monken said. Let’s play good as a team.

This ongoing competition adds pressure on Watson, as Monken and the Browns organization assess player performances to make a decision regarding the starting quarterback.

Future Decisions for the Browns

Monken and his team aim to decide on the starting quarterback soon. However, the timeline remains uncertain. Despite the challenges, Watson half-jokingly comments that if he wins the job, he would feel like he is playing all games away due to the fans’ reactions.

Monken noted that Sanders’ confidence and capability to release the ball quickly are among the reasons for his strong performance. This could influence the final decision, as Sanders did not face the same negative reception from fans during the game.