Cleveland Browns coach Todd Monken has affirmed that Deshaun Watson will continue as the team's starting quarterback for Week 2, despite a difficult Week 1 performance and vocal fan support for backup Shedeur Sanders.
Watson, starting his first game in two years, threw an interception on the opening drive of the Browns' 34-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. However, Monken pointed to the limited practice time Watson has had with the team as a factor.
'It's only been two weeks that he's gotten all the [practice] reps,' Monken told reporters. 'And there were some really good things on film – some things that you can build on.'
Monken acknowledged that the team needs to improve operationally and in executing concepts. Watson completed 16-of-22 passes for 205 yards and one touchdown in the Week 1 game, but also took five sacks.
'I did think that when he had time, when he understood the concepts, he didn't play tentative, that he let it rip,' Monken added. He highlighted a late touchdown pass as a positive sign, noting it was thrown to one of the Jaguars' starting cornerbacks.
Sanders, son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, has become the favored choice among many fans to start, a sentiment that has reportedly not gone unnoticed by Watson.
The 31-year-old quarterback has faced scrutiny from Cleveland fans due to injuries, a 2022 suspension, and his substantial contract. Boos from the crowd during a preseason game further complicated his relationship with the fanbase.
'It has nothing to do about the performance,' Watson said previously regarding the boos. 'It's a little bit personal. I think that's a disrespectful thing. ... Last time I played on this field, I tore my Achilles and that same fan base, they cheered when I got hurt.'
Calls for Sanders to start have intensified following the Week 1 result. Some fans had speculated that Monken might hand Sanders the reins for the home opener.
The Browns are scheduled to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in their next game.