JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Deshaun Watson tries to quiet the critics, and Todd Monken makes his head coaching debut as the Cleveland Browns open the season against the Jacksonville Jaguars today – Sunday, Sept. 13 – at EverBank Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida.
How to watch Browns vs. Jaguars today
What: Cleveland Browns vs. Jacksonville JaguarsWhen: Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026Time: 1 p.m. EasternWhere: EverBank Stadium | Jacksonville, Fla. Channel: CBSStreaming options: DIRECTV (free trial and $35 off your first month), FuboTV (free trial and $25 off your first month), SlingTV and Paramount PlusHow do I watch Browns vs. Jaguars for free?
This NFL matchup will broadcast live on CBS at 1 p.m. Eastern. You can take advantage of free trials from DIRECTV and FuboTV, which also offer large discounts on your first month.
You can watch this game on Sling TV for $19.99 per month with Sling Select, which offers local channels in select markets.
Stream this NFL game live on Paramount Plus for just $8.99 per month.
Here are five storylines to watch for today’s game:
1. Todd Monken faces the Browns’ history of season-opening failure
First-year head coach Todd Monken aims to break a culture of losing that has seen Cleveland go 3-23-1 in season openers since the franchise returned to the NFL in 1999. He is attempting to become the first Browns head coach to win his debut game since Bud Carson achieved the feat in 1989.
2. Deshaun Watson attempts to extend his undefeated record against the Jaguars
Quarterback Deshaun Watson returns to the starting lineup following a 2024 Achilles injury, looking to improve a Browns offense that completed a league-low 57.9% of passes in 2025. Watson enters the game with a perfect 7-0 career record against Jacksonville, the only team he has played multiple times without ever suffering a loss.
3. Cleveland looks to break in major new pieces on both sides of the ball
The Browns’ roster features major changes, most notably the debut of edge rusher Jared Verse, who was acquired from the Rams in a blockbuster trade for two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett. The team will also break in a revamped receiving corps that includes veteran Jerry Jeudy alongside rookies KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston.
4. Quinshon Judkins returns to the field following major leg injuries
Workhorse running back Quinshon Judkins is set to lead the ground game after recovering from a dislocated ankle and fractured fibula that sidelined him late last season. Before his injury, Judkins was a dominant force for the offense, recording 230 carries for 827 yards and seven touchdowns.
5. How will Jacksonville utilize Travis Hunter?
The Jaguars look to build on a 13-4 campaign with quarterback Trevor Lawrence but also have a wildcard up their sleeve with 2024 Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter. He spent the last two weeks of training camp at cornerback but remains a potential threat for offensive sets.