Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken confirmed on Monday that Deshaun Watson will continue as the team’s starting quarterback for the upcoming matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Monken cited recent film study, noting “some really good things on film” and “concepts that, you know, there’s only so many looks you get from week to week.”

Monken emphasized that Watson has only had two weeks of full reps after a 693‑day hiatus from playing, sharing the quarterback duties with Shedeur Sanders during training camp. While acknowledging the performance was not perfect, Monken said the Browns “didn’t score as few points as we did” and expressed a desire to build on the positives.

Limited Timeframe for the Decision

Despite the endorsement, Monken warned that Watson’s tenure as starter is not indefinite. The coach indicated that the Browns’ patience could run out by Week 3, when the team hosts the Carolina Panthers. Multiple NFL sources suggest ownership will closely monitor Watson’s performance against Tampa Bay and decide whether to make a change.

The Browns opened the season with a 34‑10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, a game that highlighted the challenges the team faces. Watson completed 16 of 22 passes for 205 yards, one touchdown, and one interception in that loss.

Potential Implications

If Watson fails to improve, the Browns could face criticism for their 2022 decision to acquire him from Houston, especially given former teammate Baker Mayfield’s success with the Buccaneers. Fans have already expressed frustration, booing Watson during preseason, and Watson himself called the booing “disrespectful”.

Monken concluded, “We got to play better around him. We got to call it better, and he’s going to play better.” The upcoming games will determine whether Watson can solidify his role or if the Browns will look elsewhere for stability at quarterback.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.