Watson calls Browns fan reaction 'personal' after preseason boos

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has characterised the negative reception he received during a preseason match as "personal" and "disrespectful," highlighting a growing tension between the veteran player and the club's supporters. The comments come after Watson completed five of 12 passes for 36 yards and one interception in a 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills, drawing boos as he exited the field at Huntington Bank Field.

Watson specifically referenced his previous injury history at the same venue to contextualise the current reaction. "Last time I played on this field, I tore my Achilles and that same fan base, they cheered when I got hurt," Watson told reporters. He noted that the previous season ended with a 5-12 record under new head coach Todd Monken, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Baltimore Ravens.

The incident occurs amid an ongoing competition for the starting quarterback role, with teammate Shedeur Sanders outperforming Watson in the same preseason game. Sanders completed nine of 11 passes for 74 yards and one touchdown, a performance that has helped him cement his candidacy for the starting position.

Addressing the fan reaction, Sanders expressed that he did not appreciate the boos, citing a need for mutual respect between players and supporters. "Just regardless of competition with all human beings… I think it’s more about [a] bigger purpose than just respect," Sanders said. "It’s a respect I feel should be there."

Watson acknowledged that there is only so much he can do to change the perception of the fan base, stating that he must continue to work on his mental approach. "At the end of the day, I just have to continue to work on that and strive to be better mentally moving forward," he said.

The Browns are set to open the 2026 season on the road against the Jacksonville Jaguars on 13 September, as they look to build momentum under new leadership.