Stephen A. Smith “very disgusted” with Deshaun Watson despite wanting QB to “succeed”

Deshaun Watson came into the year with high hopes of provingt he was worth every penny of his $230 million contract. However, as every week goes by, fans' support continues to weaken. Speaking on Friday's edition of "First Take," Stephen A. Smith said that he was rooting for Watson but was also disappointed with the Cleveland Browns QB's play.

Smith said:

"I'm very disgusted with Deshaun Watson. Here's why, because I root for the brother. I want the man to succeed. ... (2:59)

"I don't know what the hell happened to him since that period of time, but the only thing we do know about him is that the cases against him went away, but so did this game, because we ain't seen that quarterback since he departed from Houston, but he got his bag though: $230 million guaranteed."

Watson is averaging a 57.8% completion percentage and has thrown for three touchdowns and two interceptions this season. After going 5-1 last season, he has started the 2024 season at 1-2. At this point, some believe Deshaun Watson's future might just about be sealed.

Even if he is under contract for several more seasons, the odds of him getting another contract anywhere close to his current one dwindle with every losing, below-average performance.

Deshaun Watson's production ticks up despite danger of falling to 1-3

The Cleveland Browns are a loss away (against the Las Vegas Raiders) from falling to the dreaded 1-3 September record. While his improvement hasn't turned the team into a buzzsaw, Watson has seen his production improve every week this season.

In Week 1, he threw for more interceptions than touchdowns and had a passer rating of 51.1. Then, in Week 2, he threw for as many touchdowns as interceptions and saw his passer rating rise to 78.8 (zero in each category). In Week 3, he threw for two touchdowns, zero interceptions and had an 89.5 passer rating.

His passing yardage also increased in every game so far this year. Of course, patterns in the NFL often get shattered as soon as they emerge, but for now, Watson has at least one argument going for him. With the Raiders still smarting after allowing Andy Dalton to kick in the door last week with three touchdowns, will Watson be able to duplicate Dalton's feat?

If any of the above quotes are used, credit "First Take" and H/T Sportskeeda.