Deshaun Watson will open the season as the Cleveland Browns‘ starting quarterback, coach Todd Monken announced Monday.
And in his first news conference as the Browns’ starter, Watson apologized for his postgame comments Saturday in which he called fans “disrespectful” for booing him.
Watson, 30, won a competition with second-year player Shedeur Sanders that began in the offseason workout program and stretched into the first two preseason games. Sanders will be Watson’s backup.
“Took in the full body of work over the course of offseason to training camp, to the games, the joint practice, and ultimately felt like to start the season on the road, Deshaun gave us the best chance to move the ball and score points,” Monken said Monday. “I mean, that’s really what it’s about. And felt that way going in the last game but wasn’t sure. And after we talked as a staff and after we relooked at everything, we’re going to go that direction.”
Monken said the decision to start Watson will not be a “week-to-week” proposition.
The Browns face the Jacksonville Jaguars on the road in Week 1.
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