Browns Plan to Start Deshaun Watson Against Texans Despite Strong Performance From Shedeur Sanders.
The Cleveland Browns are expected to return to Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback for Week 10 against the Houston Texans, despite an impressive performance from Shedeur Sanders in Sunday's 23-22 overtime loss to the New Orleans Saints.
According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Cleveland plans to move forward with Watson as its starter after the veteran quarterback missed Sunday's game while recovering from a concussion. Watson cleared the NFL's concussion protocol Saturday but remained inactive against New Orleans, giving Sanders an opportunity to lead Cleveland's offense.
Sanders made the most of his opportunity, completing 19 of 31 passes for 297 yards and two touchdowns. Although the Browns came up short, the second-year quarterback delivered several explosive plays and helped keep Cleveland competitive throughout the second half.
After a difficult start, Sanders found his rhythm and connected with rookie wide receiver Denzel Boston for a 60-yard gain. He later delivered a 64-yard touchdown pass to rookie KC Concepcion, putting the Browns ahead 13-9 late in the fourth quarter. Sanders continued to make plays under pressure, directing a late field goal drive that forced overtime. In the extra period, he connected with tight end Harold Fannin Jr. for a 39-yard touchdown, giving Cleveland an opportunity to win with a two-point conversion.
However, Sanders' final pass attempt on the conversion fell incomplete, ending the Browns' comeback effort. Despite the loss, Sanders' performance raised questions about Cleveland's quarterback situation, particularly with Watson experiencing inconsistent production this season. Watson helped guide the Browns to a 5-3 record through their first eight games, including five game-winning drives, the most in the NFL entering Week 9. However, his 40.9 Total QBR ranked 28th among 30 qualifying quarterbacks.
Sanders finished Sunday's game with a 39 Total QBR, his second-highest single-game mark of his career. His two completions of at least 60 yards also matched twice the number Watson had recorded through eight starts. Following the game, Browns head coach Todd Monken praised Sanders' effort but declined to address whether his performance could lead to a change at quarterback. For now, Cleveland appears committed to Watson as its starter as the team prepares for its Week 10 matchup against Houston. While Sanders' performance was not enough to secure a victory, his ability to generate explosive plays and lead the offense in critical moments provided Cleveland with an encouraging look at its young quarterback. With Watson expected to return, Sanders will likely move back into a reserve role. However, his showing against New Orleans could keep the quarterback conversation alive as the Browns continue their season.
