Cleveland Browns starting quarterback Deshaun Watson has been placed in the NFL's concussion protocol, casting doubt on his availability for Sunday's road game against the New Orleans Saints. Watson reported concussion symptoms to the team's medical staff on Tuesday morning following a helmet-to-helmet hit from Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker in the season opener. Though cleared during Sunday's game, symptoms resurfaced later in the week.
With the Browns 5-3 and sitting third in the AFC North, Watson's absence would be significant as he has started the first eight games, completing 65.5% of passes for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions. If Watson cannot clear the protocol, Shedeur Sanders stands ready to make his first start of the season. The 2025 fifth-round pick served as backup last year after losing a competition to Watson and has thrown just three passes this year.
Dillon Gabriel, returning from injured reserve, served as emergency QB in Week 8, while rookie Taylen Green also remains on the roster.
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing