The future of Deshaun Watson in Cleveland remains one of the biggest questions surrounding the Browns. Fans wanted him gone before the season, and those feelings only intensified after Cleveland’s ugly 34-10 loss to Jacksonville in Week 1.

Watson’s performance against the Jaguars did little to change that perception. With rookie Shedeur Sanders waiting behind him, questions quickly emerged about whether the Browns should hand their young quarterback the offense.

However, Week 2 complicated everything. Watson responded with 238 passing yards and two touchdowns as Cleveland defeated Tampa Bay 23-19. Suddenly, the conversation became less about replacing Watson and more about whether he deserves to remain QB1.

That has left the fan base and media split. Some believe Sanders represents Cleveland’s future, while others think Watson should continue building on his latest performance. Now, NFL legend Steve Smith Sr. has offered his perspective.

Smith believes Cleveland must focus strictly on football when making the decision. He also argues that constantly switching between quarterbacks could damage the locker room, especially if players believe Watson gives them the better chance to win.

“As a football player, you cannot start a younger player, especially as a veteran. You can't start a younger player and lose the locker room and come back to that veteran player.”

Smith also pointed to Todd Monken’s fresh perspective on Watson. The Browns coach inherited the situation and can evaluate Watson without being tied to the quarterback’s previous struggles.

Deshaun Watson Calls for Truce With Browns Fans

Watson has also tried to repair his relationship with Cleveland supporters. Ahead of the Browns’ first home game, he made it clear that he does not want another battle with the Dawg Pound.

“I never try to go to war with the fans.”

That message came after Watson and Browns fans repeatedly clashed during the preseason. A strong performance against Carolina could therefore help Watson build momentum on the field and potentially ease tensions in the stands.

Written by

Joseph Nithin