Bitter Defeat for Browns as Watson Suffers Potentially Season-Ending Injury
In a shocking turn of events during Sunday’s game, Deshaun Watson, the Browns’ contentious quarterback, fell victim to an apparent season-ending Achilles tendon injury. This incident came during a disappointing 21-14 defeat against the Cincinnati Bengals, adding another layer of complexity to Watson’s already tumultuous time with the Browns.
Watson’s Uncertain Future
Watson, who signed a fully guaranteed $230 million contract with the Browns in 2022, now faces an uncertain future with the team. Despite his inconsistent performance this season, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski refrained from confirming Watson’s absence for the rest of the season. However, the likelihood of the 29-year-old QB missing the remainder of the season is high.
A Troubling Injury
The incident occurred towards the end of the first half, when Watson’s leg buckled during a non-contact play. Both the Browns and Bengals players left their sidelines to show support for Watson, whose time with the Browns has been marred by off-field controversies, injuries, and subpar performance.
Fans’ Reaction Sparks Controversy
Myles Garrett, the Browns’ star defensive end, expressed his disgust at fans who cheered when Watson went down, calling for better sportsmanship from the Browns’ supporters.
Bengals End Losing Streak at Cleveland
On the other side of the turf, Joe Burrow of the Bengals celebrated throwing two touchdown passes in the third quarter, marking an end to a six-game losing streak at Cleveland.
Watson’s Controversial Tenure
Having been traded from Houston for three first-round draft picks, Watson’s tenure with the Browns has been fraught with controversy, from his suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy to inconsistent performances on the field.
The Aftermath of the Injury
In Watson’s absence, Dorian Thompson-Robinson took the reins, only to be replaced by Jameis Winston due to a finger injury. Winston, like Garrett, was taken aback by the fans’ reactions to Watson’s injury.
Bengals’ Bright Spot
For the Bengals, Charlie Jones provided a highlight with a 100-yard touchdown from the opening kickoff. This significant play contributed to the Bengals’ third win in four games after a disappointing start to the season.
Browns Welcome Back Chubb
In other news for the Browns, the game marked the return of Nick Chubb from a season-ending knee injury suffered last season. Chubb, who scored a touchdown shortly after Watson’s exit, was warmly received by the home crowd.
Injury Updates and Upcoming Games
The injury report for the Bengals includes safety Geno Stone and left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. The Browns’ Thompson-Robinson also suffered an injury to his throwing hand. The Bengals are set to host Philadelphia next Sunday, while the Browns will face Baltimore at home.