Browns Plan to Start Watson After Sanders’ Week 9 Start

On November 9, the Browns’ expected starting quarterback for their Week 10 game was Deshaun Watson, who had been working through the NFL’s concussion protocol. Shedeur Sanders started in Watson’s place against the Saints in Week 9 and delivered a strong passing performance, but Cleveland reportedly planned to return to Watson once he cleared the protocol.

Sanders completed 19 of 31 passes for 297 yards, with two touchdowns and no interceptions. The Browns nevertheless lost 23-22 in New Orleans after Sanders could not convert a two-point attempt that would have won the game.

The loss left Cleveland with a 5-4 record, behind the AFC North-leading Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals, both 6-2. The Browns are scheduled to face the Texans in Week 10, with kickoff set for 1 p.m. ET. The team’s reported plan is to have Watson start that game.