Browns pick Watson after Breer’s start-or-cut fork

He went 5-for-12 with an interception Saturday

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 241 min read

Saturday’s mess left the @Browns with two options left for @DeshaunWatson—start him or cut him. @TheMMQB Takeaways Lead Via @AlbertBreer on X

What happened: Cleveland designated Deshaun Watson QB1 for its Sept. 13 opener after Albert Breer said the team's remaining options were to start or release him. The decision followed a 31-7 preseason loss in which Watson threw for 36 yards.

Why it matters: Watson carries a $40.9 million cap hit this season, giving the move consequences beyond the depth chart. Two road games open Cleveland's schedule before its Week 3 home return.

By the numbers: Watson completed 41.7% of his passes Saturday, going 5-for-12 for 36 yards with no touchdowns and one interception.

What to watch: Cleveland will assess Watson over its two-game road opening before returning home in Week 3.

Sources

@AlbertBreer 2026-08-24T23:03:18.877886+00:00

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