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Deshaun Watson Will Start vs. Jags as Browns Prioritize Football Amid Off-Field Issues
The Cleveland Browns (0-1) will head into Week 2 facing significant off-field distractions, but their focus remains clear: securing a win against the Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1). Despite new legal challenges for quarterback Deshaun Watson, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Watson will start Sunday’s game, signaling the team’s intent to concentrate solely on football.
Watson, who previously faced allegations of sexual misconduct during his time with the Houston Texans, is now dealing with a fresh civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault from four years ago. Yet, the Browns have maintained a united front, with Stefanski reaffirming their commitment to follow the NFL’s legal protocols and guidelines while focusing on their upcoming opponent.
“We’ll let due process play out and follow the NFL guidelines,” Stefanski said. “We are 100 percent focused on Jacksonville, on going on the road against a good football team, and trying to find a way to get a win.”
Watson’s Struggles in Week 1
The Browns are coming off a disappointing 33-17 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1, where Watson struggled to find his form. The quarterback finished the game with 169 passing yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, and was sacked six times, limiting the Browns’ ability to develop any offensive rhythm.
Addressing his performance and the team’s mindset, Watson emphasized that his focus remains on football:
“I focus on keeping the main thing the main thing,” Watson said. “I’m focusing on improving after last week’s loss and making sure we’re better this Sunday.”
Teammates, including defensive leader Myles Garrett, rallied behind Watson, expressing their continued support amidst his ongoing off-field challenges.
“We’ll continue to have his back completely and help him get through everything he’s dealing with,” Garrett said.
Jaguars Look to Avoid 0-2 Start
The Jaguars are also in search of their first win after a narrow 20-17 loss to the Miami Dolphins in Week 1. Despite holding a 17-7 lead at halftime, Jacksonville faltered in the second half, failing to convert on key third-down attempts. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence passed for 162 yards and one touchdown, but emphasized the importance of moving on from the loss:
“You can’t let a tough loss affect your confidence. We’ve got to keep moving forward and focus on Cleveland,” Lawrence said.
The Jaguars face a tough early-season schedule, with back-to-back games against 2023 playoff teams. Following their clash with the Browns, they travel to face the Buffalo Bills and Houston Texans.
Gameday ✨aura✨#CLEvsJAX pic.twitter.com/Xj3aJRU01V
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) September 15, 2024
Key Injuries Impacting Both Teams
Both the Browns and Jaguars are dealing with injuries that could impact Sunday’s game:
- Browns Injuries: Cleveland will be without tight end David Njoku (ankle), who suffered an injury against the Cowboys. The Browns also placed five defensive players, including linebacker Tony Fields II and safety Juan Thornhill, on injured reserve this week. Offensive tackle Jack Conklin (knee) is questionable.
- Jaguars Injuries: Jacksonville placed cornerback Tyson Campbell on injured reserve with a hamstring injury, while cornerback Darnell Savage (quadricep) has been ruled out. Defensive end Tyler Lacy and linebacker Caleb Johnson are both questionable.
Series History
The Jaguars hold a 12-7 advantage in the all-time series between these two teams, but the Browns have won the last two matchups. In their most recent meeting in Week 14 of last season, Cleveland secured a 31-27 victory at home.
What’s at Stake
Both teams are eager to avoid an 0-2 start, making this an important matchup early in the season. The Browns are looking to block out external distractions, tighten up their offense, and improve Watson’s protection. Meanwhile, the Jaguars are aiming to correct their second-half struggles from Week 1 and secure a critical home victory.
