“Deshaun Watson’s Touchdown Booed as Browns Remove Controversial Contract Clause”
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson scored a one-yard rushing touchdown on the opening drive of Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. This run capped a notable 16-play, 89-yard drive that took over nine minutes, putting the Browns ahead 7-0. Cleveland led 13-3 at halftime, with Watson completing 11 of 15 passes for 105 yards.
However, as Watson crossed into the end zone, he was met with a chorus of boos from the Everbank Stadium crowd. The reaction followed new allegations against Watson, which he has strongly denied. Despite these claims, Watson continues to play for the Browns.
During the broadcast of the Browns vs. Jaguars game, CBS displayed a graphic detailing the new allegations against Watson. The NFL is reviewing these claims, but Watson can continue to play until the league announces a decision. NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy stated, “We are reviewing the complaint under the Personal Conduct Policy. At this time, the league is not considering the Commissioner’s Exempt list since no formal charges have been filed and the review is in its early stages.”
The Browns have issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to respecting due process and adhering to NFL guidelines regarding the situation.
Watson’s performance in the Browns’ Week 1 loss to the Dallas Cowboys was criticized. He completed just 24 of 45 passes for 169 yards, including one touchdown and two interceptions, with most of his yardage coming in garbage time. The Cowboys were subsequently outperformed by the New Orleans Saints, who scored 35 first-half points against Dallas.
The Browns signed Watson to a significant five-year, $230 million fully-guaranteed contract after trading three first-round picks to acquire him from the Houston Texans in 2022. NFL Insider Ari Meirov reported that the Browns might be able to void some of Watson’s guarantees if he faces another suspension.
Through 13 starts with the Browns entering this week, Watson has led the team to an 8-5 record, completing 59.1% of his passes for 2,386 yards and 15 touchdowns.
