The good news for Cleveland Browns fans is they defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars, 24-13, in their preseason opener on Friday.
The other side saw controversial quarterback Deshaun Watson make his debut. After missing all of last season due to being scandal-plagued through off-the-field indiscretions while a Houston Texan, Watson was rusty.
Deshaun Watson's first play on an NFL field in 19 months. pic.twitter.com/tPefjzBu1V
— The Comeback (@thecomeback) August 12, 2022
He completed 1-of-5 passes for 7 yards in limited duty. By contrast first-round bust Josh Rosen made his Browns debut, too, and went 6-of-7 for 56 yards.
Watson already is facing a lengthy suspension from the NFL after being accused of sexual misconduct by more than two dozen massage therapists.
The issue is now under the advisement of Peter C Harvey, a former New Jersey attorney general.
The league is pushing for a full-year suspension. Watson has been reported to be hoping for an eight-game ban and a $5 million fine.
Of course, there is also the fully guaranteed $230 million contract the Browns gave Watson after acquiring him via trade. The pact calls for Watson to receive “only” $1 million in salary in 2022.