A protest outside Cleveland Browns Stadium has put fresh attention on the team’s decision to keep Deshaun Watson as its starting quarterback. Signs were taped to the statue of Hall of Famer Jim Brown, criticizing Watson’s place on the roster and the franchise’s handling of his past.
One sign placed on Brown’s statue read, “$280,000,000 / 27+ VICTIMS / ZERO SUPPORTERS.” Another described Watson’s presence as “PERMANENT DAMAGE TO THE CITY & FRANCHISE.” The messages reflect the continuing anger surrounding Watson in Cleveland.
Coach Todd Monken said Monday that Watson will begin the season as the Browns’ starting quarterback. The announcement came after Watson was booed during Cleveland’s 31-7 preseason loss to Buffalo on Saturday.
Watson recently returned to game action after missing 22 months because of a ruptured Achilles tendon. After the game, he criticized the reaction from fans and called the booing “personal.”
Watson’s Controversial History
Watson signed a guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract with Cleveland in 2022. His arrival drew strong criticism after more than two dozen women accused him of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage therapy sessions.
The NFL suspended Watson for the first 11 games of the 2022 season. The suspension followed a violation of the league’s personal conduct policy.
Watson was also fined $5 million. He had to undergo an evaluation before he could return to the league.
Watson remains a divisive figure in Cleveland. The Browns have confirmed him as their starting quarterback. However, the protest at Jim Brown’s statue shows that public criticism of the team’s decision continues.
The messages highlight the lasting controversy around Watson and the Browns. His return to the field has not ended the debate over his past or his place on the team.
