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Deshaun Watson’s awful interception on Browns’ first 2026 drive is a bad but predictable sign

Deshaun Watson endured a dismal start to the 2026 NFL campaign, tossing a costly interception on just his third pass during the Cleveland Browns' opening possession. 5-point underdogs, the Browns began a two-game road stretch that will also take them to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2.

Watson, who had played in merely 19 contests since joining the franchise in 2022, was taking the field for his initial regular-season starting appearance since 2024.

Cleveland had officially tabbed Watson as QB1 on August 24 following an offseason battle against Shedeur Sanders. Despite hearing boos from fans after the preseason finale—a negative reaction addressed by general manager Andrew Berry—Watson garnered vocal backing from former player Michael Vick while offensive coordinator Todd Monken commented on his preparation.

With scrutiny mounting, the veteran signal-caller reportedly faces pressure to prove his viability as the starter by the third week of the season.