The Jaguars had no problem spoiling head coach Todd Monken’s debut and quarterback Deshaun Watson’s first game since 2024.
Jacksonville defeated Cleveland, 34-10, to open the 2026 season 1-0.
The Jags scored on each of their first four possessions in the first half, taking a 24-0 lead into the break. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence had three touchdown passes in the first 30 minutes, adding another to Jacksonville’s first touchdown of the third quarter for a 31-0 lead.
Lawrence finished 18 of 23 for 245 yards with four touchdowns. With the Jags surging, Nick Mullens came in to relieve Lawrence with 8:12 left in the fourth quarter.
Parker Washington, JaKobi Meyers, Brenton Strange and rookie Josh Cameron were the recipients of Lawrence’s four TD passes.
Running back Bhayshul Tuten did a good job walking the rock, finishing the race with…
Before Lawrence was taken from the game, the Jaguars averaged 7.2 yards per play.
On the other hand, it started ugly for Watson and continued that way all afternoon. He threw an interception to Foyesade Oluokun to end Cleveland’s opening drive. He threw another close interception that was dropped at the end of the Browns’ second possession. He was then fired, but picked himself up.
Rookie KC Concepcion also had a fumble that led to a Jaguars touchdown. He finished with four receptions for 43 yards, which led Cleveland. He also had three carries for 15 yards.
The positive play from Watson came right at the end of the game, as he threw a 46-yard pass to rookie Denzel Boston for his first career field goal.
The Jaguars have now won nine straight regular season games dating back to Week 11 of last season. They will be on the road to face the Broncos in week two.
At 0-1, Cleveland returns to Florida next week to face Tampa Bay, a matchup that will see Deshaun Watson square off against Baker Mayfield — that is, if Watson isn’t replaced by then.
