Deshaun Watson entered the season under enormous pressure after years of criticism from Browns fans and the wider NFL world. His difficult Week 1 performance against Jacksonville only intensified those doubts. However, consecutive victories have quickly changed the atmosphere around Cleveland's quarterback.

Watson began winning supporters back during the Week 2 victory over Tampa Bay, throwing for 238 yards and two touchdowns. Then came another dramatic performance against Carolina, where he completed 16 of 30 passes for 144 yards and two touchdowns in Cleveland's 21-18 victory.

The fourth quarter was where Watson truly made his mark. Cleveland needed a late response, and Watson delivered an eight-play, 55-yard touchdown drive before finding Harold Fannin Jr. for the go-ahead score. Suddenly, the quarterback who faced so much criticism was producing the clutch moments Cleveland desperately needed.

That performance even earned unexpected praise from Stephen A. Smith, who has repeatedly criticized Watson during his Browns tenure. Speaking about Watson's recent resurgence, Smith highlighted the production he believes Cleveland expected when it handed Watson his massive contract.

“Let me tell you what is worthy of bragging home about. In the second half of this season, Deshaun Watson has completed 75% of his passes. He's thrown for 397 yards. He's thrown for four touchdowns, not a single interception, with a passer rating of 132.5.”

For Watson, the changing reaction from Cleveland fans represents a significant development. Three weeks ago, his future with the Browns looked uncertain, but his recent play has started changing that conversation.

Deshaun Watson Has Shown Why the Fourth Quarter Is Special

Watson previously explained that fourth quarters have always been special for him. Week 3 provided another example, as he remained composed when Cleveland needed its quarterback most.

His performance was not perfect, but the late-game execution mattered enormously. Watson now has consecutive victories to build upon, giving him an opportunity to continue changing perceptions.

The Browns still need more consistency, but Watson's clutch play has given Cleveland something it desperately lacked entering the season: confidence in its quarterback.

Written by

Joseph Nithin