The Cleveland Browns announced Deshaun Watson as their Week 1 starting quarterback ahead of Shedeur Sanders, and the Browns’ faithful aren’t exactly fond of the decision.
In response to the Browns’ call, some fans vandalized the statue of franchise legend Jim Brown. The NFL community took to social media to show their disgust at the turn of events
NFL Community Blasts Browns Fans Vandalizing Legendary Jim Brown’s Statue
Brown is a legend in Cleveland and one of the best, if not the best, players to ever wear the orange and brown uniform. He’s a three-time MVP, eight-time first-team All-Pro, and a Pro Football Hall of Famer. He was, of course, honored with a statue, but Cleveland fans vandalized it this week with signs showing their disapproval over Watson being named the starter.
It’s safe to say the NFL community was far from thrilled with the Browns fans’ protest. Brown’s statue was returned to its normal state as the anti-Watson posters were later removed.
“Loser fans, man, they have nothing better to do with their time,” said one fan.
Members of the NFL community didn’t seem to understand why Brown’s statue had to be the target of their displeasure, since it has no connection to the Watson-Sanders QB competition.
“Jim Brown’s statue didn’t do [expletive] to anyone,” said one fan.
BE THE GM OF YOUR FAVORITE TEAM: PFN’s Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator
Watson has dealt with a laundry list of off-field issues that have played into the frustrations of Browns fans over the last few years. Beyond the multiple long-term injuries, Browns fans aren’t the happiest with Watson. They are entitled to their opinion on whether Watson should be the starter for their team, but not to vandalizing property.
“Hey Clevelanders, all feelings are ok, all behaviors are not ok,” added one fan.
Hey Clevelanders all feelings are ok all behaviors are not ok. @EvSynWilliams
— Twood (@Sword100000) August 25, 2026
START PREPARING: PFN’s Free Fantasy Draft Simulator
Another fan echoed the sentiment that their feelings were valid, but their actions were unacceptable.
“Some people are really [expletive]. Protest, yes. Jim Brown, no,” said one fan.
Some people are really stupid. Protest, yes. Jim Brown, no. 😂 https://t.co/NaWrVmDsk4
— It’s G 💪🏽 (@GIcee216) August 25, 2026
Browns fans took plenty of heat from the NFL community for their behavior. Their efforts aren’t going to do much either; Watson will start Week 1, barring any injury or a wild change of heart.
Browns fans are going to have to hope Watson struggles enough to be benched if they want to see Sanders take the starting job back in 2026.
