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Deshaun Watson faces criticism as wife shows support during preseason loss

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 4:24 AM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

Deshaun Watson faces criticism as wife shows support during preseason loss

Summary

Deshaun Watson's struggles in his return to Cleveland continue as he faced boos from home fans during the Browns' preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills on August 22. Watson's wife, Jilly Anais, expressed her support on social media after he completed 5-of-12 passes for 35 yards with an interception. The negative fan reaction coincides with Watson's attempts to reintegrate after a lengthy injury absence and is perceived by him as personal disrespect. He recalled past encounters with the Cleveland crowd, including a previous injury. Watson is competing for the starting quarterback position ahead of the regular season, and the Browns have yet to announce their Week 1 starter.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Cleveland Browns lose 31-7 to the Buffalo Bills on August 22.
•Watson was booed by fans after struggling in the game.
•His wife voiced support with a social media post.
•Watson has not yet been named Week 1 starting quarterback.
•He is recovering from significant injury and competing with Shedeur Sanders.

Latest Updates

4:24 AMYahoo Sports — Deshaun Watson’s Wife Pens 4-Word Message, Throws Full Weight Behind $230M QB Even as Boos Rain Down From Home Fans

What they're saying

"
Deshaun Watson’s return to Cleveland has become about more than winning the starting quarterback job. The veteran is trying to regain his footing after a long injury absence while facing growing frustration from the Browns’ home crowd.
— Yahoo Sports

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