Deshaun Watson has spent the last few weeks hearing plenty of boos from Browns fans, and he knows exactly what kind of reception has followed him into the 2026 season. Cleveland’s anger has been easy to understand. The team sent away three first-round picks for Watson and handed him a fully guaranteed deal, only to get far less back than anyone expected.
Still, Watson has tried to stay on the positive side of things. After the Browns dropped their season opener to the Jaguars, he said he would “keep smiling” regardless of the noise. Then came the Week 2 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and suddenly the mood around Cleveland looked a little different.
Ahead of the Browns’ home opener against the 1-1 Carolina Panthers, Watson made his pitch to the fan base.
“So, I think the biggest thing is…just ready for support, ready to feel their energy, ready to get this big [win] for the city of Cleveland and continue this great feeling that we have this week,” the 31-year-old said.
It was a direct appeal to the same crowd that has booed him year after year. But with a win over Tampa Bay in the books, Watson is asking for one day of backing as the Browns try to build on that momentum.
That Week 2 comeback almost never happened. Cleveland was staring down the possibility of an 0-2 start before Watson helped drag the team back for the win. Afterward, Todd Monken had nothing but praise for his quarterback.
“I’m so happy for him. Good for him.
Good for 22 months working his (tail) off to get to where he’s at. I’m gonna leave it at that,” Monken said.
If the Browns can beat Carolina on Sunday, Watson may finally hear something different from the stands.
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Panthers Face A Risky Defensive Decision As Run Issues Mount
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Bleacher Reports Kristopher Knox floated a familiar name in that discussion, listing Daron Payne among the top trade candidates who could give Carolina an immediate lift up front. Payne, a Pro Bowl selection in 2022, is reportedly available for a third-round pick, but the fit comes with real downside because he would be a free agent after the season, leaving the Panthers to weigh short-term stability against the risk of a one-year rental. [Read more 🡒]