DESHAUN WATSON STRUGGLES AS BROWNS WEIGH QB OPTIONS

Deshaun Watson recorded 36 passing yards and one interception in the Cleveland Browns' preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, which the Browns lost 31-7. Watson entered the game in the second half with the Browns already trailing by 7 points and failed to improve the offensive performance, recording three-and-out possessions twice in the third quarter. He completed 5 of 12 pass attempts and ran twice for 13 yards. The performance prompted NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah to reconsider the Browns' quarterback strategy.

Jeremiah stated on NFL Game Day Kickoff that he had changed his position on the starting quarterback role, suggesting the Browns should start rookie Shedeur Sanders instead of Watson. Jeremiah acknowledged that the team would be financially committed to Watson regardless, with a projected $41 million financial obligation. In earlier preseason action, Sanders completed 64 of 91 passes for a 70.3% completion rate with 4 touchdowns and 1 interception during the first week of training camp. Watson, by contrast, threw 3 touchdowns but recorded 6 interceptions during the same period. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken had previously described Watson's performance against the Bears as "awesome".

Watson has been projected as the Browns' starting quarterback and has received increased practice repetitions in recent weeks, with Sanders relegated to second-team duties. Jeremiah indicated that Watson's role with the team would depend on how the situation develops, whilst emphasising the team's need to allow younger players to develop together. The Browns' choice between the two quarterbacks will shape their offensive approach for the forthcoming season.