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Deshaun Watson news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Deshaun Watson said he doesn't care if Browns fans boo him Saturday. His return from Achilles injury fuels a QB battle with Shedeur Sanders.
Background
Watson is returning from a torn Achilles suffered in October 2024, which cost him the entire 2025 season. He is competing with second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders for the Browns' starting job. Watson's tenure in Cleveland has been marred by poor performance and off-field issues, making him a polarizing figure among fans.
How it unfolded
- Oct 20, 2024Watson suffers a ruptured Achilles tendon in a home game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
- Aug 15, 2026Watson plays his first game since the injury, starting against the Chicago Bears, completing 11-of-15 passes for 126 yards with no touchdowns and one fumble.
- Aug 19, 2026Watson holds a press conference, addressing his upcoming return to Cleveland and the expected fan reaction.
- Aug 20, 2026Watson participates in a joint practice with the Buffalo Bills, reportedly maintaining a slight edge over Sanders in the QB competition.
- Aug 22, 2026Browns play their preseason home opener against the Bills; Watson is expected to play in the third quarter, with Sanders starting and playing the first half.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Browns coach Todd Monken has not named a starter, but signs point to Watson being named soon, according to Mary Kay Cabot.
- Analysts
- CBS Sports lists Watson's contract as the worst in NFL history, noting he has been paid $9.6 million per start.
- Public
- Browns fans have regularly booed Watson, and he says he doesn't care about their reception.
- Expert
- The Wall Street Journal calls the QB competition 'rock-bottom,' saying both quarterbacks might not start for any other team.
Still unverified
The exact fan reaction at Saturday's game is not yet known; Watson's statement that he doesn't care is his personal view.