Updated
The Cleveland Browns suffered their second loss of the season, and head coach Todd Monken didn't hide his frustration afterward, delivering a strong message about protecting Deshaun Watson after the quarterback was sacked eight times in a 17-12 defeat to the New York Jets.
Cleveland entered the game riding the momentum of three straight victories following its Week 1 loss and was looking to improve to 4-1. Instead, the trip to New York brought the team's resurgence to a halt.
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The biggest issue was the complete breakdown of the offensive line. The Jets dominated at the line of scrimmage, relentlessly pressuring Watson and finishing with eight sacks—the most the Browns have allowed in a game this season.
After the loss, Monken made it clear that such a performance cannot happen again.
"Let's just say this, eight sacks is a season-high. I hope like hell the rest of the time I'm here, we don't have a game we have eight sacks," Monken said.
Watson never found an answer to the pressure
The defeat was a significant setback for Deshaun Watson and the Browns, who missed the chance to win their fourth consecutive game and strengthen their position in the AFC standings.
Although Cleveland trailed just 7-6 at halftime, the offense never found its rhythm. The relentless pressure on Watson ultimately tilted the game in the Jets' favor.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4)
Watson finished 15-of-33 passing for 155 yards and one touchdown, while adding 40 rushing yards on six carries, but he never looked comfortable in the pocket.
On the ground, Quinshon Judkins led the Browns with 14 carries for 44 yards, while also catching three passes for six yards. Through the air, Isaiah Bond paced the receiving corps with three catches for 74 yards, and Denzel Boston added three receptions for 46 yards and a touchdown.
The Browns will now look to bounce back in Week 6 when they host the Baltimore Ravens in a pivotal divisional matchup that could have major implications in the AFC race.