The Cleveland Browns have made their choice for quarterback as the 2026 NFL season begins. Deshaun Watson will start in Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. This decision by first-year head coach Todd Monken addresses a major question for the Browns, though it continues to spark debate among football enthusiasts. Watson’s performance since joining Cleveland has not matched the expectations tied to his $230 million contract.
During a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, fans expressed their discontent by booing Watson. Watson described their reaction as “disrespectful” and “personal.” Entering the new season, Watson faces significant pressure, returning for his first regular-season play since a 2024 Achilles injury. Some analysts predict his role could change by Week 3 when the Browns face the Carolina Panthers at home.
Former NFL star Chad Ochocinco shared insights with OutKick, suggesting Watson must start the season strong to maintain his position. “If they start 0-2,” Ochocinco stated, “there’s a chance they will re-evaluate the starting quarterback.” He emphasized the need to begin the season at 1-1 or 2-0 to avoid changes.
“It was never a quarterback competition,”Ochocinco argued on his “Nightcap” podcast with Shannon Sharpe. According to him, Watson’s high salary ensures his starting position, but performance now defines his future role.
Watson’s journey with the Browns has been rocky. Since his acquisition in a trade with the Houston Texans, he’s played 19 games over three seasons, with injuries and an 11-game suspension affecting his availability. The Browns have a 9-10 record with Watson on the field, including a 1-6 mark in 2024. Compared to his time with the Texans, where he achieved a 104.5 passer rating, Watson’s 80.7 rating in Cleveland highlights concerns.
The fan base’s dissatisfaction stems from a lack of success, Ochocinco noted. Watson’s past issues in Houston compound the frustration that ensued post-trade. The key to reversing fans’ negativity, as Ochocinco sees it, lies in performance and winning. Victories over initial opponents, Jacksonville and Tampa Bay, would change perceptions quickly.
Chad Ochocinco believes that if Watson can start the season with wins, he will regain fans’ support. As he mentioned, “Winning cures all,” suggesting that early success would overshadow previous controversies and underperformance.
Regarding his collaboration with DraftKings, Ochocinco expressed excitement for the upcoming football season. The “DraftKings Gameday” event on September 2 will celebrate the season’s start and offer free fuel at select locations in Los Angeles, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta, and Detroit. DraftKings will announce specific details separately.
“We’re giving you free gas,” said Ochocinco, referring to the promotion as a unique initiative to engage NFL fans. DraftKings also plans to introduce in-app promotions, in-person activities, a charitable initiative, and a campaign featuring Kevin Hart and Nick Jonas.
By providing these experiences, DraftKings aims to differentiate itself in the competitive landscape. Ochocinco expressed enthusiasm for participating, highlighting the value these opportunities bring to fans.