Deshaun Watson, Browns Off To Disastrous Start Against Jaguars

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Deshaun Watson, Browns Off To Disastrous Start Against Jaguars

Originally posted on The Spun | By Tzvi Machlin | Last updated Sep 13, 2026 1:54 PM ET

There was no shortage of backlash in response to Cleveland Browns QB Deshaun Watson being named the starter. It only took about five plays for many of those doubters to feel justified.

On the Browns’ opening drive of today’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Watson actually got the team off to a decent start. The first four plays were all for positive yardage including two Watson completions for 22 yards that took the ball down to the Jaguars’ 33-yard line.

But on the fifth play of the drive, the only person Watson could find was Jaguars defender Foyesade Oluokun, who brought the ball back to the 41-yard line. The Jaguars then marched the ball 59 yards down on eight plays to take a 7-0 lead.

Aug 27, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) is seen prior to the game against the New England Patriots at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn ImagesKen Blaze-Imagn Images.

On the ensuing drive, Watson had one incompletion on a three-and-out. The Jaguars then marched down the field for another touchdown to take a 14-0 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Through the first quarter, Watson is three of five for 24 yards and an interception. He has a 32.5 QB rating and has already been sacked twice.

One could argue that the much bigger issue is the Browns’ defense, which has barely been able to cause the Jaguars to lose yardage on a play, let alone stop them from scoring touchdowns.

But Watson is the designated leader of the team and so far the only thing he’s leading is a losing effort.

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – OCTOBER 22: Deshaun Watson #4 of the Cleveland Browns warms up before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium on October 22, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)Michael Hickey/Getty Images

Controversy in Cleveland

Watson spent the entire 2026 offseason battling Shedeur Sanders for the starting job, only finally being named the starter right before the final preseason game. He missed the entire 2025 season and most of the 2024 season with injuries.

While this may be Watson’s fifth year in Cleveland, it’s only his 18th appearance on the field for the team. Patience with Watson is pretty nonexistent in Cleveland.

If Watson doesn’t turn things around quickly, his 18th start might be his last for a while.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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