Deshaun Watson named Cleveland Browns Week 1 starter

Deshaun Watson has been named the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns for Week 1 of the NFL season. Watson, who is making his first regular-season appearance in nearly two years following Achilles surgeries, will debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars on September 13.

Despite his selection, Watson faces significant pressure to perform. Analysts suggest his tenure as the starter may be precarious, with some reports indicating he has a window of four to six weeks to impress the coaching staff. This pressure is compounded by the presence of Shedeur Sanders, who is also competing for playing time. Prediction markets on Kalshi currently show a 59% probability that Sanders could make his first start during Weeks 3 or 4.

Watson’s history with the Browns includes 19 games played since his 2022 acquisition, totaling 3,365 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Head coach Todd Monken has indicated that the decision to start Watson was based on his perceived ability to lead the offense, rather than solely on his contract status.