Browns Issue 1-Word Statement on Deshaun Watson's Future After Loss to Eagles

The Cleveland Browns offense struggled once again in a 20-16 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, with quarterback Deshaun Watson’s performance remaining a significant concern for the team.

Watson completed 16 of 23 passes for 168 yards against Philadelphia. While the performance was far from impressive, the stat line is somewhat misleading, as much of Cleveland's passing production came from yards after the catch. The Browns took a cautious approach, steering away from having Watson push the ball downfield.

Watson has yet to eclipse the 200-yard passing mark this season. Adding to the Browns' struggles, they’ve become the first team since the 2014 Jacksonville Jaguars to fail to score 20 points in each of their first six games. For context, that Jaguars squad ended the season with a 3-13 record.

Despite calls to bench Watson in favor of backup Jameis Winston, the Browns are standing by their starting quarterback. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski announced the decision after the loss to the Eagles.

"Yes," Stefanski replied when asked if the team would stick with Watson as their starter.

Watson has thrown for 1,020 yards, five touchdowns, and three interceptions so far this season. The Browns made a blockbuster move in 2022, trading three first-round picks (and more) for Watson and signing him to an unprecedented fully guaranteed $230 million contract .

Since joining Cleveland, he holds a 9-9 record as the starting quarterback.

Related: 'There's No Way' Browns Will Bench QB Deshaun Watson