Deshaun Watson Enters Concussion Protocol, Opening Door for Shedeur Sanders Against Saints.
BEREA, Ohio — The Cleveland Browns could be preparing for a change at quarterback after Deshaun Watson entered the NFL's concussion protocol Wednesday, leaving his status uncertain for Sunday's road matchup against the New Orleans Saints. Cleveland announced that Watson informed the team's medical staff Tuesday morning that he had begun experiencing concussion-related symptoms following Sunday's loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Watson sustained a helmet-to-helmet hit from Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker during Cleveland's opening offensive possession. He briefly left the game for a medical evaluation, missing three plays before being cleared to return by an independent neurological consultant. According to the Browns, Watson underwent additional evaluations after the game and again Monday, with neither examination revealing concussion symptoms. However, his condition changed Tuesday morning, prompting the team to place him in the league's concussion protocol. The uncertainty surrounding Watson comes at an important point in Cleveland's season. The Browns currently hold a 5-3 record and sit third in the AFC North, just one game behind the division-leading Steelers. Through eight starts this season, Watson has completed 65.5% of his passes for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions. If Watson is unable to receive medical clearance before Sunday, second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders could get his first starting opportunity of the 2026 season. Sanders, selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, started seven games during his rookie campaign. However, he entered this season as Cleveland's backup after Watson won the team's offseason quarterback competition.
The former Colorado standout has seen limited action this year, attempting just three passes through Cleveland's first eight games. A potential start against New Orleans would give Sanders an opportunity to return to a leading role in the Browns' offense after spending much of the season on the sidelines. Cleveland also has additional quarterback depth available. Dillon Gabriel was activated from injured reserve last week and served as the team's emergency quarterback in Week 8. Rookie Taylen Green remains another option on the roster. For now, Cleveland's quarterback situation will depend on Watson's recovery and his progress through the NFL's required concussion protocol. With the Browns attempting to remain competitive in a tight AFC North race, Sunday's matchup against New Orleans could become an important opportunity for Sanders if Watson is unable to play.
