Cleveland Browns fans have expressed their discontent following the announcement that Deshaun Watson will be the team’s starting quarterback for the upcoming season. The franchise made the decision public on Monday, 24 August 2024—a choice that has taken many, including analysts, by surprise. Former NFL player and commentator Dan Orlovsky spoke on ESPN, saying, “I feel awful for the fans,” as the news broke.
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The backlash was immediate. Just one day later, a series of protest signs appeared on the statue of Browns legend Jim Brown at Huntington Bank Field. These signs were critical of both Watson and the organisation, with one prominently declaring, “Permanent damage to the city and franchise.” This sign, along with others, was removed by Browns staff the following day.
In an apparent display of frustration, a sign affixed to the statue read, “$280,000,000/27+ victims/Zero Regrets/‘No Regrets’/Millions of Fans Held Hostage/0-16 Was More Fun.” The intensity of feelings among supporters was further highlighted by another sign stating, “Cleveland is done with the Haslams and their fre4k Watson,” using a play on numbers to reference Watson’s jersey.
The controversy surrounding Watson stems from a slew of serious allegations made against him in recent years. In 2021, the first accusation of sexual assault emerged from a Houston massage therapist. Ashley Solis, who later identified herself, accused Watson of indecent exposure and inappropriate touching during a massage at her home. Following this, the number of women alleging similar misconduct against Watson ballooned to 24, yet two Texas grand juries ultimately chose not to indict him on criminal charges.
The NFL took action, handing Watson an 11-game suspension coupled with a fine of $5 million. He was subsequently traded from the Houston Texans to the Browns in 2022, signing a staggering $230 million guaranteed contract in the process. This major investment by the Browns has heightened expectations and scrutiny surrounding Watson as he assumes the starting quarterback role.
During a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills on 22 August 2024, Watson was met with a chorus of boos from the crowd, which he perceived as personal disrespect rather than a reflection on his performance. “I think the whole world knows it has nothing to do about the performance,” Watson stated after the game, alluding to the controversies he has faced.
In response to the uproar, Watson later apologised to the fans, acknowledging that his emotions had clouded his judgement. “My comments weren’t intending to go at any of the fans around in the city,” he remarked during a press conference, recognising the passionate support many fans have shown. He expressed his desire to focus on improving his performance and building a positive rapport with the fanbase.
Watson’s comments were aimed at addressing the broad spectrum of emotions that supporters of the team are feeling. “I understand the frustration. I understand everything that kind of goes into that,” he noted. Despite his problematic past, Watson seems eager to turn over a new leaf and deliver success for the franchise.
As the Browns prepare for the upcoming season, the internal conflict among the fanbase is apparent. Many supporters continue to express their dismay at the tarnished reputation of their star quarterback, while others remain hopeful for a fresh start under his leadership. With the season approaching, it remains to be seen how the dynamics between Watson and the fanbase will evolve.
The Cleveland Browns organisation, having changed ownership in 2012 under Jimmy and Dee Haslam, now faces a crucial moment in its history. With widespread scepticism over decision-making at the top, the road ahead for Watson and the franchise will require more than just impressive performances on the field; it will need a concerted effort to mend relations with its loyal but wary fanbase.