Deshaun Watson mourns father’s death before Browns season opener

Deshaun Watson, the Cleveland Browns quarterback, announced the death of his father, Don Richardson, just two days before the team's season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. Watson shared the news on his Instagram story, expressing his sorrow with a heartfelt message. The relationship between Watson and his father was reportedly strained, with Watson revealing in past interviews that he had seen his father only a handful of times during his childhood in Gainesville, Georgia. Instead, he relied heavily on his mother, Deann, who he credits as both his mother and father. As Watson prepares for the upcoming season, he faces the challenge of balancing personal grief with professional responsibilities. The Browns are set to host the Cowboys, and it remains uncertain whether this tragic news will affect Watson's participation in the game. The quarterback is coming off a difficult period, having undergone shoulder surgery after suffering an injury last season, which limited his appearances since 2020. Watson has expressed confidence in his abilities, stating that he still considers himself an elite quarterback. He has been working diligently to recover from his injury and is focused on building strength and endurance in his shoulder. The upcoming season is crucial for him, as he aims to lead the Browns effectively after a tumultuous few years marked by injuries and off-field controversies. The loss of his father adds another layer of complexity to Watson's situation as he navigates his return to the field. The impact of this personal tragedy on his performance and mental state will be closely observed by fans and analysts alike as the season unfolds.