Deshaun Watson, once accused of more than 20 counts of sexual misconduct and what an NFL investigation would later describe as "predatory behavior," won the league's least optimistic quarterback battle this summer. The Cleveland Browns, forever chasing the sunk cost of acquiring the once revered passer, gave the veteran QB1 honors over Shedeur Sanders.
It was an interesting choice. Watson has been injured and, when on the field, one of the NFL's worst players. 49 quarterbacks have taken at least 250 snaps since 2024. Watson's -0.222 expected points added (EPA) per dropback ranks 49th. Sanders is 48th (-0.153), but is also about seven years younger. The logic from head coach Todd Monken, at least in theory, was that Watson would bring a stable
floor and avoid the drive-crushing mistakes that often derailed Sanders' rookie season.
About that:
Now that's a start! @foyelicious | #CLEvsJAX on CBS pic.twitter.com/SjAhtWZBqL
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) September 13, 2026
Watson completely blanked Foyesade Oluokun, who easily stepped in front of the pass to turn a 32-yard drive with scoring potential into a squandered opportunity. It was his third pass of the season. The Jacksonville Jaguars used the momentum of their opening drive interception and took a 7-0 lead shortly after.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: It took 3 passes for Deshaun Watson to embarrass himself vs. Jaguars
