Browns Quarterback Deshaun Watson Undergoes Concussion Protocol Before Saints Matchup

The Cleveland Browns confirmed on Wednesday that their starting quarterback, Deshaun Watson, has been entered into the NFL's concussion protocol. This development has raised questions about whether Watson will be available to start in Sunday's away contest against the New Orleans Saints.

According to a team statement, Watson informed the Browns' medical staff on Tuesday morning that he was experiencing symptoms associated with a concussion. The injury stems from a helmet-to-helmet collision with Pittsburgh Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker during the opening drive of last Sunday's loss in Pittsburgh.

During that game, Watson missed three plays while undergoing a concussion check. Cleveland noted that an unaffiliated neurotrauma consultant performed a game-day evaluation and cleared him to return to the field. Following the game, Watson was evaluated by the team's medical staff and again on Monday without showing any symptoms, which led to his decision to report the issues on Tuesday.

The Browns currently hold a 5-3 record, placing them in third position in the AFC North. They trail the first-place Steelers by one game. Watson has started the first eight games of the season, completing 65.5 percent of his pass attempts for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions.

Should Watson fail to clear the protocol in time for the matchup against New Orleans, Shedeur Sanders is expected to take the starting role. This would mark Sanders' first start of the season. The 2025 fifth-round pick started seven games as a rookie but has acted as the backup this year after losing the quarterback competition to Watson. Sanders has thrown only three passes this season.

Dillon Gabriel recently returned from injured reserve and served as the emergency quarterback during Week 8. The roster also includes rookie Taylen Green.