Todd Monken has had an arduous first season as head coach of the Cleveland Browns, which has proven challenging due to quarterback Deshaun Watson’s underwhelming play and fans booing him during an important game. But Monken believes fans’ displeasure with Watson is justified – especially given their unfavorable reviews from pundits such as ESPN’s NFL draft coverage.
Monken responded that their profession is performance-based; as such, fans’ reactions will depend on performance levels. “When we expect something, and don’t receive it; that is part of why we do what we do. “
He added, “And that’s why we’re paid what we are. I mean, to perform at a high level. And when we don’t, then that’s the repercussions of it. We’ve run to this smoke. This is the job we’ve chosen.”
No matter how talented a player is, what ultimately matters is whether they can deliver results that satisfy the fans. Unfortunately, Watson struggled significantly during the Browns’ matchup against the Buffalo Bills on August 22.
Shedeur Sanders started the game and performed efficiently before halftime, completing 9-of-11 passes for 74 yards with a touchdown, along with an interception and a sack. After halftime, Watson took over and immediately faced boos from the crowd, including on his very first snap.
The booing intensified after Watson began the third quarter with consecutive three-and-outs. On one play, a defender pressured him as he threw, resulting in an incomplete pass well short of the intended target.
The Browns continued to struggle through the third quarter, prompting even louder boos from their own fans following multiple offensive failures. The displeasure was unmistakable, growing louder into the fourth quarter. Watson finished the game completing only five of 12 passes for 36 yards, with one interception, in a 31-7 loss.
Before the game, Watson claimed he would not be bothered by the fans’ reactions. However, following the game, it appeared the boos affected him more than he initially indicated. He expressed that the reaction was personal and disrespectful but chose to keep his feelings private.
Since joining Cleveland, Watson has been a controversial figure. The Browns traded three first-round picks to Houston in 2022 and signed him to a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract. They were also well aware of his legal issues, which resulted in an 11-game suspension that he served after signing.
Though expectations were lofty for Watson when he joined the Browns, injuries have prevented him from living up to them. At Houston he earned three Pro Bowl selections within four seasons before suffering an Achilles tear that required removal from play; some fans even cheered in response!
Watson enters this season playing out his last year of contract and must deliver an impressive showing to win back Cleveland fans’ trust and turn around any negative perceptions surrounding himself.