Watson Clears Concussion Protocol, but Browns’ Game-Day Plans Remain Unclear

Watson passed the NFL’s concussion protocol on November 7, but Cleveland had not decided whether he would be available to play against the New Orleans Saints the next day. The Browns listed him as questionable after he returned to practice for the team’s final full session on November 6.

Coach Todd Monken announced on November 6 that rookie Shedeur Sanders would start. Watson’s potential role was still being assessed, Monken said, and Sanders is set to take the opening snap regardless of whether Watson dresses.

Watson entered the protocol on November 3 after suffering a concussion in Cleveland’s 27-6 loss to Pittsburgh in Week 8. Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker struck him helmet-to-helmet early in the first quarter. Watson briefly left, then returned on the next series and completed 27 of 39 passes for 324 yards. He also lost a fumble on a strip sack during his first drive back.

Pittsburgh sacked Watson eight times, matching his career high. He has been sacked 33 times this season, more than any other NFL player. In eight starts, he has thrown for 1,806 yards and seven touchdowns, with three interceptions, and has led five fourth-quarter comebacks.

Cleveland held a walkthrough in Berea on November 7 before traveling south. If Watson is inactive, Dillon Gabriel is likely to serve as Sanders’ backup; Gabriel was the emergency third quarterback in Week 8, while rookie Taylen Green was inactive. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on November 8.