Deshaun Watson calls booing by Browns fans ‘disrespectful’ and ‘personal’
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson expressed frustration after being booed by fans during a preseason game. Watson, who has faced significant off-field controversies and injury struggles, described the crowd's reaction as personal and disrespectful.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the ongoing tension between professional athletes and fanbases, particularly when personal conduct and high-value contracts intersect with on-field performance.
CLEVELAND — Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson fired back at his detractors, calling the booing he heard from some Cleveland fans during Saturday’s home preseason loss against Buffalo “disrespectful” and “personal.” Watson, who has a complicated relationship with Cleveland fans because of injuries, off-field issues — including an NFL suspension in 2022 — and a massive, $230 million contract, was booed repeatedly during the second half of a 31-7 loss to the Bills. Watson was just 5 of 12 passing for 36 yards and threw an interception. He came off the bench because the Browns started Shedeur Sanders, who is competing with Watson for the starting job. Coach Todd Monken has yet to decide which QB will start the season opener in Jacksonville on Sept. 13. Watson didn’t appreciate the reaction from the sparse crowd at Huntington Bank Field.
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