Browns' Watson Sacked 8 Times in Loss to Jets

The Cleveland Browns allowed eight sacks to quarterback Deshaun Watson during their Week 5 matchup against the New York Jets, contributing to a 17-12 loss. The defeat ended the team’s three-game winning streak and dropped their record to 3-2.

Zion Johnson, an offensive guard signed this offseason for $49.5 million over three years, addressed the team’s struggles in protecting Watson. Johnson noted the offensive line and other units need to improve execution, citing missed assignments as a key issue.

Johnson, who has been a strong run blocker with the Los Angeles Chargers, was among the least effective pass protectors when paired with Justin Herbert. His player impact score through five weeks is 76.8, placing him in the low 90s among offensive linemen.

Watson also commented on the team’s overall performance, citing penalties, turnovers, and communication breakdowns as contributing factors. He emphasized the need to review the game film and prepare for the next matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.

The Browns will host the Ravens in Week 6, an AFC North showdown. The Ravens, who beat the Falcons 17-12 in overtime, are now 4-1 and lead their division. Watson will remain the starting quarterback as the team seeks to rebound from its second-lowest point total of the season.

Cleveland’s offensive struggles continued with a 10-point output against the Jacksonville Jaguars to open the campaign, marking a significant drop from previous seasons. The team faces a critical challenge in regaining its former performance level.