NFL analyst lashes out at Deshuan Watson: “You've been objectively abysmal ever since leaving Houston”

Deshaun Watson ’s battle to reclaim the Cleveland Browns ’ starting quarterback job has become even more complicated after his response to being booed by home fans sparked criticism from NFL analysts.

Watson received a loud reaction from sections of the Cleveland crowd during the Browns ’ preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills after another difficult outing.

The veteran quarterback completed just 5 of 12 passes for 36 yards and threw an interception before leaving the field to boos. After the game, Watson suggested the reaction was not simply about his performance.

“I think the whole world knows it has nothing to do with the performance,” Watson said. “It’s a little bit more personal than that. So, I think it’s a disrespectful thing.”

The comments immediately reignited debate around Watson ’s time in Cleveland, with NFL commentator Joe criticizing the quarterback for what he viewed as a lack of accountability.

“Yeah, dude. You’re widely believed to be a s*xual criminal, you are the highest paid QB ever, the Browns replaced a star QB with you, and you’ve been objectively abysmal ever since leaving Houston,” the analyst said on X. “I’d be kind of worried if they didn’t hate you.”

Watson’s massive Browns contract hasn't delivered

Cleveland made a major commitment to Watson when the team traded for him from the Houston Texans in 2022, giving him a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract.

The move was viewed as a potential franchise-changing decision, but Watson ’s time with the Browns has been defined by injuries, inconsistent play, and continued public criticism.

In four seasons with Cleveland, Watson has appeared in only 19 games, recording a 9-10 record with 3,365 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. His availability has been a major concern, including a torn Achilles injury that sidelined him after the 2024 season.

Watson ’s off-field controversy has also remained part of the conversation. He faced 27 civil lawsuits alleging s*xual misconduct and assault during massage therapy sessions.

Although the cases were settled and Watson wasn't convicted, the NFL suspended him for 11 games and fined him $5 million in 2022.

The quarterback’s relationship with the fan base has remained fractured since arriving in Cleveland, making the reaction during the preseason game unsurprising to many observers.

Shedeur Sanders calls for respect

Despite competing with Watson for the Browns ’ starting role, rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders defended his teammate after the game.

“Yeah, I mean, in general, I don’t appreciate that at all,” Sanders said. “Regardless of competition, we’re all human beings. I think we all need to understand that.”

Sanders acknowledged fans can have strong feelings about the situation but said respect should remain a priority.

“For all the fans, we appreciate you showing up, and however you feel about the situation with Deshaun and everything, I think it’s more about a bigger purpose and it’s respect,” Sanders added.

Watson appeared to have the advantage in the quarterback competition after an encouraging preseason performance against the Chicago Bears , but his struggles against Buffalo have changed the discussion.

Daryl Ruiter of 92.3 The Fan questioned the quarterback’s current standing, saying, “I think Deshaun confirmed for us everything that I have been talking about, and that is, the dude is washed.”

Nick Pedone added that Watson’s poor play was only part of the issue.

“He all but admitted his disdain for this fan base that clearly has that same feeling towards him,” Pedone said.

With the regular season approaching, the Browns must decide whether Watson ’s experience and contract commitment outweigh the growing frustration surrounding him, or whether Sanders has done enough to take control of the job.