Deshaun Watson Enters Concussion Protocol Ahead of Saints Matchup
Cleveland quarterback reports delayed symptoms, potentially clearing the path for Shedeur Sanders to start.
1Delayed Concussion Diagnosis
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson entered the NFL concussion protocol Tuesday morning after reporting symptoms. Although Watson passed initial evaluations following a helmet-to-helmet hit from Jaquan Brisker during Sunday's 27-6 loss to the Steelers, he began experiencing concussion-like issues Monday night. The team confirmed his status following these delayed reports.
2Protocol and Evaluation Timeline
League rules mandate multiple evaluations for players involved in significant hits. Watson was checked on the sideline during the game, immediately after the contest, and again Monday morning. Despite clearing these initial checks, his Tuesday morning report triggered the mandatory protocol, which requires medical clearance before returning to active play.
3Shedeur Sanders Potential Start
If Watson remains sidelined for the Week 9 game against the New Orleans Saints, second-year pro Shedeur Sanders is the primary candidate to start. Sanders has appeared in only two games this season, playing five total snaps and completing three passes for two yards, following his loss in the offseason quarterback competition.
4Sanders' Previous Performance
During the 2025 season, Sanders appeared in eight games, starting seven. He recorded seven touchdown passes against ten interceptions, completing 56.6% of his attempts. Statistical analysis ranked him last among 36 quarterbacks with at least 200 attempts in completion percentage, touchdown-to-interception ratio, and overall passer rating during that specific campaign.
5Offensive Ecosystem Upgrades
Should Sanders start, he enters a more favorable environment than his previous tenure. The Browns have bolstered their offensive line and added receiving talent, specifically rookies Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion. These personnel upgrades are intended to provide better support for the quarterback position compared to the previous year's roster.
6Saints Defensive Vulnerability
The upcoming matchup against the New Orleans Saints could offer a manageable transition for a backup quarterback. New Orleans currently ranks 28th in both yards allowed per play and yards allowed per game. This defensive statistical profile suggests a potential opportunity for the Browns to maintain offensive production despite the injury.
7Browns Season Context
The Browns currently hold a 5-3 record, making the upcoming game against the Saints critical for their playoff positioning. Watson’s performance in the loss to Pittsburgh included 324 passing yards, but he was sacked eight times and failed to record a touchdown, highlighting ongoing challenges for the Cleveland offensive unit.
8Medical Clearance Requirements
Watson’s availability for Sunday depends entirely on his progression through the league's five-step concussion protocol. He must demonstrate the ability to perform football activities without symptoms before being cleared by an independent neurological consultant. The team will monitor his status daily to determine if he can participate in practice sessions.