The Cleveland Browns have named Deshaun Watson their starting quarterback for Week 10, reversing course after Shedeur Sanders nearly led the team to an upset win over the New Orleans Saints in his absence.
Watson, who missed the Saints game due to concussion protocol, will return to the lineup for Sunday’s matchup against the Houston Texans. Sanders, filling in as the starter, completed 19 of 31 passes for 297 yards and two touchdowns in a 23-22 overtime loss to New Orleans. His performance included a 64-yard touchdown pass to KC Concepcion in the fourth quarter and a 39-yard catch-and-run to Harold Fannin Jr. in overtime, but the Browns failed to convert a two-point attempt, sealing the defeat.
Coach Todd Monken praised Sanders’ composure and pocket presence following the game, noting his ability to make plays with his feet and escape pressure. Watson, meanwhile, has been cleared to return after entering concussion protocol the prior week.
-- The Decision to Revert to Watson --
The Browns’ decision to return to Watson comes despite Sanders’ strong showing and Watson’s underwhelming tenure with the franchise. Watson, now 31, is in the final year of a five-year, $230 million contract that the Browns have openly acknowledged regretting. Sanders, a fifth-round draft pick in 2024, was thrust into the starting role after injuries to Joe Flacco and Dillon Gabriel. He went 3-4 as a starter, completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, while also adding 169 rushing yards.
Watson has started eight games this season, his most since 2020, though his production has not met expectations. The Browns’ trade deadline passed without a move to replace either quarterback, leaving Watson and Sanders in a competitive but unresolved quarterback situation. NFL reporter Ken Carman suggested Dillon Gabriel, a third-round rookie, may have the best long-term outlook due to his familiarity with the offense, though neither Watson nor Sanders appears secure beyond this season.
-- Sanders’ Role and Future Uncertainty --
Sanders’ performance against New Orleans was widely praised, with Monken calling it a building block for his development. However, the Browns’ decision to revert to Watson underscores the team’s commitment to its high-priced veteran, despite his injury history and inconsistent play. Watson’s return to Houston, where he played the first five seasons of his career, adds personal stakes to the game.
The Browns’ quarterback situation remains fluid, with Gabriel recovering from a concussion and Sanders now operating as the primary backup. The team’s 5-4 record leaves the door open for further changes, but for now, Watson will remain the starter as Cleveland looks to rebound from its near-miss against New Orleans.