The Cleveland Browns were dealt a major blow regarding quarterback Deshaun Watson. Following a re-evaluation by team medical personnel after a helmet-to-helmet collision against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Watson has been placed into the NFL’s concussion protocol, paving the way for Shedeur Sanders to potentially make his first start for Cleveland this season.
In a statement posted to their official channels, the Browns revealed that Watson was initially cleared to finish Sunday’s matchup by an Unaffiliated Neurotrauma Consultant (UNC), with Monday’s routine evaluations showing no red flags. However, after reporting concussion symptoms upon arriving at the facility on Tuesday morning, Watson was immediately entered into the protocol.
With Watson’s status in serious jeopardy ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the New Orleans Saints, Sanders is trending toward the QB1 role, positioning the signal-caller for his first start of the season.
Despite early-season struggles noted by offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Watson had been battling to keep the Browns in playoff contention. Now, those postseason hopes face a major setback, with serious questions surrounding his health and availability down the stretch.
Sanders in line for Browns start on Sunday
After making just two appearances for Cleveland this season on the heels of a Pro Bowl rookie campaign, Sanders is expected to make the start under center Sunday against the Saints. It presents an ideal bounce-back opportunity against a struggling 2-5 New Orleans squad for the young quarterback to prove what he can do.
Through those two relief outings in 2026, Sanders has completed all three of his pass attempts for a modest two yards. Stuck on the sideline behind Watson’s stellar play all year, his limited workload looks poised to shift drastically this weekend.
Key takeaways
- Deshaun Watson entered NFL concussion protocol following a re-evaluation after Sunday’s game.
- The Browns reported Deshaun Watson experienced concussion symptoms upon arriving Tuesday morning.
- Shedeur Sanders completed three passes for two yards in two relief appearances this season.
