Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson announced the death of his estranged father, Don Richardson, just two days before the team’s season opener against the Dallas Cowboys, sharing the news on Instagram.

Watson's announcement of his father's death comes at a tumultuous time in his career, as he navigates significant pressure to perform after an 11-game suspension due to serious allegations of misconduct. The news of Richardson's passing highlights a complicated relationship marked by estrangement; Watson had minimal contact with him during his upbringing and has publicly leaned on his mother for support. With the Browns set to kick off their season amidst high expectations, this personal tragedy may impact Watson's focus and emotional state as he approaches a critical moment in both his professional and personal life.

Watson shared the news of his father's passing through an emotional post on Instagram, saying, 'Rest in Peace Pops,' and adding a broken heart and praying hands emoji. The message underscores the bittersweet nature of their relationship, emphasizing the complexity of familial bonds, particularly when compounded by estrangement.

While the exact details regarding the cause of Don Richardson's death have not been revealed, Watson announced the death of his father just two days before the Cleveland Browns’ season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. Watson was reportedly estranged from his father and had only seen him a handful of times during his childhood, relying primarily on his mother for support and choosing to use her surname rather than his father's.

Watson's relationship with his father has been fraught with distance throughout his life. Reports indicate that he saw Richardson only a handful of times during his childhood. This estrangement led Watson to lean heavily on his mother, whom he credits as his primary source of support. In fact, Watson chose to utilize his mother's surname rather than his father's, further illustrating the dynamics of his family life and the role his mother played in his upbringing.

Complicating matters further, Watson is facing an uphill battle in terms of public perception and professional expectations this season. After an 11-game suspension stemming from allegations of sexual misconduct by over two dozen women, the quarterback is under significant pressure. Watson announced the death of his father, Don Richardson, just two days before the Cleveland Browns’ season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. Details surrounding the cause of Don Richardson's death were not disclosed, and Watson was reportedly estranged from his father, having only seen him a handful of times during his childhood.

In his prior seasons with the Houston Texans, Watson made three Pro Bowl appearances and established himself as a formidable talent in the NFL. His trade to the Cleveland Browns in 2022 was marked by high hopes for a fresh start. In 2023, he led the Browns to an impressive 5-1 start, demonstrating resilience and a commitment to his team. However, the season took a turn when he suffered a shoulder injury, which has since been confirmed as season-ending.

As the Cleveland Browns prepare to open their season against the Dallas Cowboys, Watson's personal situation remains under close scrutiny. The team is aiming for significant success this season, and the quarterback’s performance is critical to their aspirations. It remains to be seen how these converging pressures will influence his performance and mindset on the field.

Despite these challenges, Watson has expressed a determination to focus on his responsibilities as a player and leader. The situation surrounding his father's death adds emotional complexity during this trying time. However, it is important to note that Watson was reportedly estranged from his father and had only seen him a handful of times during his childhood. As the team gears up to kick off the season, the situation serves as a reminder of the personal hardships athletes may face behind their public personas, especially in light of the significant pressures Watson has faced this season due to his suspension for 11 games following accusations of sexual misconduct by over two dozen women.