Deshaun Watson Injury News & Updates

The Browns plan on waiting until at least Week 12 to potentially open Watson's (Achilles) 21-day practice window, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

On Monday, head coach Kevin Stefanski noted that Watson was progressing well in his comeback from his Jan. 20 surgery to address a re-ruptured right Achilles tendon and didn't dismiss the possibility of the quarterback practicing this week, but Watson will end up having his return to the field delayed by at least one more week. Given that he hasn't practiced in more than a year since he initially ruptured his Achilles on Oct. 20, Watson will likely need close to the full 21-day window to complete his ramp-up process before the Browns would consider activating him from the PUP list. Despite having been out all season, Watson remains engaged with the Browns and has attended all meetings and has filled a mentorship role for Cleveland's two rookie quarterbacks, starter Dillon Gabriel and backup Shedeur Sanders. The 30-year-old remains under contract with the Browns through next season after inking a five-year, $230 million extension with Cleveland shortly after he was acquired from the Texans in March 2022.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that Watson (Achilles) won't have his 21-day practice window opened this week, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Stefanski noted that he had no update on the status of Watson, though the lack of new information isn't necessarily a sign that the quarterback has experienced any sort of setback. Watson was always expected to be in line for a lengthy rehab process from the right Achilles tendon tear he sustained last October and then subsequently re-ruptured, which required a second surgery Jan. 9. Once Watson completes his rehab and advances to the point in his recovery that he's ready to practice, the Browns should have a better idea regarding whether the veteran signal-caller has a realistic chance at playing in games late in the 2025 season.

Coach Kevin Stefanski noted Wednesday that he had "no real update" on Watson (Achilles) "other than he's doing a great job with his rehab," Zac Jackson of The Athletic reports.

While Watson -- who suffered a right Achilles tendon rupture in Week 7 last season, and then underwent an addition surgery in January to address the issue -- is eligible to have his practice window opened, the expectation is that the QB is still weeks away from that possibly happening. With the Browns having traded Kenny Pickett in August and Joe Flacco last Tuesday, rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders are the only signal-callers currently on the team's active roster, while Bailey Zappe is a member of the practice squad.

Watson (Achilles) is not expected to return to practice this week, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson is currently on the reserve/PUP list and is eligible to begin practicing this week, but that doesn't sound like it's in the cards for the 30-year-old quarterback. Watson suffered a torn Achilles in Week 7 last season and is roughly eight months removed from surgery. It remains to be seen if Watson will play again for the Browns, who have offered very little on the status of Watson's recovery.

The Browns placed Watson (Achilles) on the reserve/PUP list Tuesday, Kelsey Russo of the team's official site reports.

Watson will have to miss at least the first four games of the regular season as a result of the transaction, though it remains to be seen exactly when Cleveland expects him to be ready to resume practicing. He spent all of training camp and the preseason sidelined while recovering from a second Achilles procedure undergone Jan. 9. The Browns will open the 2025 campaign with Joe Flacco starting under center and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders behind him on the depth chart.

Watson (Achilles) was placed on the active/PUP list by the Browns on Tuesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Watson will officially open training camp on the sidelines, as expected, considering he's still recovering from a second right Achilles procedure that he underwent in January. The quarterback is projected to be forced to miss the beginning of the 2025 campaign already, and once healthy, it seems unlikely that the 29-year-old will regain the starting role in Cleveland. The Browns will enter training camp with Joe Flacco, Shedeur Sanders, Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel as healthy options at QB.

Watson (Achilles) has been out of his walking boot for several weeks and was throwing to teammates at the Browns' facility Monday, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports.

Watson had a second surgery on his Achilles Jan. 9 after aggravating the injury. He's not expected to be ready for the start of the season, and he isn't projected to compete for the starting job even when he is capable of retaking the field. Nevertheless, Cabot described Watson as having made "excellent progress" in his recovery.

Watson (Achilles) has agreed to a contract restructure that frees up $36 million in 2025 cap space for the Browns, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

The agreement likely adds another void year to the contract while also converting base salary into a bonus. Watson still figures to get all the money from his disastrous, fully guaranteed contract, although he may eventually play out the end of the deal as a backup or even be released. His 2024 campaign ended in October after he ruptured his right Achilles' tendon -- an injury that was surgically repaired shortly thereafter, only for Watson to re-rupture the tendon later on. He had a second surgery Jan. 9, making him unlikely to be ready for Week 1 of 2025 (almost exactly eight months later). Watson has been rehabbing at the team facility but is expected to miss "significant time in the 2025 season," according to ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi. Once healthy, Watson may have to settle for a backup role, be it behind a rookie or another veteran.

After rupturing his Achilles again, Watson underwent another surgery Thursday to address the injury, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network and Adam Schefter of ESPN report.

As a result of the setback, Watson's 2025 season could now be in jeopardy. Look for further details regarding Watson's estimated recovery timeline to emerge in the coming days and weeks, but the Browns figure to fortify their depth at the quarterback position this offseason, via free agency, trade or through the 2025 NFL draft in which Cleveland holds the No. 2 overall selection.

Browns general manager Andrew Berry said Monday that Watson has experienced a setback in his rehab from Achilles surgery that will extend the quarterback's recovery timeline, Kelsey Russo of the Browns' official site reports.

Watson suffered the season-ending injury in an Oct. 20 loss to the Bengals and underwent surgery Oct. 25 to repair his torn right Achilles tendon. According to Berry, the Browns weren't aware of Watson having suffered a setback until he was re-evaluated Sunday during his end-of-season physical. As a result of the setback, Berry noted that Watson could require another surgery, though the quarterback will presumably receive multiple medical opinions over the next few weeks before deciding the next steps in his rehab program. Given the nature of Achilles injuries, Watson was already facing an uphill battle to be back to full health for the start of the 2025 campaign, and it's now even more likely that he opens next season on a reserve list. After agreeing to a restructured contract in late December, Watson remains on the Browns' books through the 2026 season, but his underwhelming play over his first three seasons in Cleveland in addition to the Achilles injury muddles his long-term outlook in the organization.

Watson (Achilles) and the Browns agreed to a restructured contract Friday, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports.

The restructured contract doesn't alter Watson's pay or salary structure, but it spreads out the financial impact of the deal by adding two void years. The quarterback is still under contract, will be paid the next two seasons and then become a free agent in 2027. The restructure does not necessarily mean Watson will be the team's quarterback in 2025, and the state of his injured ankle is not the only unknown. The Browns' are expected to revamp the roster, which could impact Watson's status.

Watson underwent successful surgery Friday to repair a ruptured right Achilles' tendon, Kelsey Russo of the Browns' official site reports.

With his surgery going off without any complications, the 29-year-old quarterback should be back to full health for the start of the 2025 season, provided he steers clear of setbacks during what will be a lengthy rehab process. Though the Achilles surgery could curb Watson's rushing ability moving forward, the bigger question is whether he'll re-emerge as a starter in 2025 for the Browns or another team. He's still on the Browns' books through 2026 on a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract, but Watson has hardly resembled the franchise quarterback that Cleveland thought it was getting when they acquired him in March 2022. Through his 19 career starts with Cleveland over three seasons, Watson has led the team to 9-10 record while completing 61.2 percent of his throws for 6.0 yards per attempt and a 19:12 TD:INT to go with 465 rushing yards and three scores on the ground.

Watson is scheduled to undergo surgery Friday to repair his ruptured right Achilles' tendon, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

He'll have the procedure overseen by Packers team physician Dr. Robert Anderson, who specializes in foot and ankle orthopedic surgeries. According to Cabot, Watson will be facing a nine-month recovery, which should put him on pace to be close to 100 percent before the start of the 2025 season. Though Watson is still on the Browns' books through the 2026 season after signing a five-year extension for $230 million guaranteed in March 2022, his poor play and inability to stay on the field over his first three seasons in Cleveland could prompt the team to go in a different direction at quarterback in 2025, even if he's fully healthy.

The Browns placed Watson (Achilles) on injured reserve Tuesday.

After Watson suffered a season-ending ruptured right Achilles' tendon in Sunday's 21-14 loss to the Bengals, the Browns didn't wait long to move him off the 53-man roster to clear a spot for another quarterback in Bailey Zappe, who was signed off the Chiefs' practice squad. With Watson set to undergo surgery in the near future to address the injury, the Browns will turn the offense over to either Dorian Thompson-Robinson (finger) or Jameis Winston beginning with the team's Week 8 game against the Ravens. Since being traded to the Browns in March 2022 and signing a five-year, $230 million extension, Watson has made just 19 appearances and has completed 61.2 percent of his passes for 6.0 yards per attempt and a 19:12 TD:INT. If he experiences no complications in his recovery from surgery, the 29-year-old Watson should be cleared in advance of the 2025 season, though given his poor form over the past few seasons, it's unclear if the Browns will view him as a viable starting option.

Watson (Achilles) is done for the season after an MRI undergone Monday confirmed the presence of a torn Achilles sustained during Sunday's 21-14 loss to the Bengals, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Watson's season-ending injury puts Jameis Winston in likely position to enter the starting lineup for Cleveland, though it was Dorian Thompson-Robinson (finger) who suited up as the Browns' backup quarterback Sunday versus Cincinnati. After a contract restructure that involved creating a void year to create cap space in 2023 and 2024, Watson is on the books for a $46 million base salary in each of the 2025 and 2026 seasons, though it's possible that insurance for season-ending injuries could now provide the Browns with some relief. In any case, Watson faces a lengthy recovery process that could put him at risk of being unavailable early in the 2025 campaign.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski noted after Sunday's 21-14 loss to the Bengals that Watson is believed to have suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, but will undergo testing to confirm the severity of the issue, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports.

With Watson facing the possibility of an extended absence and Dorian Thompson-Robinson dealing with a finger injury, Jameis Winston is currently the healthiest Browns' QB ahead of next Sunday's game against the Ravens. In any case, look for added context regarding Watson's injury to arrive no later than Monday, but based on the initial diagnosis, he appears headed for IR in the coming days.

Watson won't return to Sunday's game against the Bengals after suffering an Achilles injury.

Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, it is feared that Watson suffered a torn Achilles, and if that's the case the QB would face an extended absence. With Jameis Winston serving as the Browns' emergency third QB on Sunday, Dorian Thompson-Robinson has taken over for Watson versus Cincinnati.

Watson was carted off the field during Sunday's game against the Bengals, per Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com, after suffering what may be an Achilles' injury, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Prior to his exit from game, Watson completed 15 of 17 passing attempts for 128 yards and carried twice for one yard. With Jameis Winston having been made the Browns' emergency third QB on Sunday, Dorian Thompson-Robinson has replaced Watson.

Watson completed 16 of 23 passes for 168 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Eagles. He added 17 rushing yards on four carries.

While the 29-year-old quarterback didn't commit any turnovers and posted a season-high 7.3 yards per attempt, Watson also failed to get the ball into the end zone -- the Browns' lone touchdown on the day came on a return of a blocked field goal. As is becoming routine in Kevin Stefanski's post-game comments, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that the head coach said he isn't benching Watson, but with the team now at 1-5 and the QB having failed to throw for 200 yards in any of those contests, he's probably running out of chances to turn his year around. Cleveland is expected to get Nick Chubb (knee) back in Week 7 against the Bengals, which could buy Watson a little more time if the star running back can help boost the performance of the offense.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski reiterated Monday that Watson is still the team's starting quarterback, Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal reports. "I have to coach better," Stefanski said. "As offensive coaches, we have to coach better. As players, we have to play better. Deshaun can play better, he will play better."

Stefanski said as much following Sunday's 34-13 loss to the Vikings and still feels the same way after having a night to sleep on it. Watson and the Browns travel to Philadelphia for Week 6, bringing an offense that ranks last offensively in yards per play (3.8), yards per game (239.4) and third-down efficiency (18.2 percent). The Eagles rank 27th in total yards allowed per game (365.8) and 24th in passing yards allowed per game (237.0).

Watson completed 15 of 28 passes for 125 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 34-13 loss to the Commanders. He added 14 rushing yards on three carries.

For the fifth straight game to begin the 2024 season, Watson failed to reach 200 passing yards, and his only real highlight came on a 10-yard TD toss to Jordan Akins in fourth-quarter garbage time. Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports that after the game, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski indicated that he had no intention of making a switch at quarterback, but the calls to replace Watson with Jameis Winston will only grow louder until he shows some ability to keep the offense moving. Next up for Watson is a Week 6 road matchup against a well-rested Eagles defense that will be coming off its bye.

Watson completed 24 of 32 pass attempts for 176 yards, one touchdown and one interception while rushing eight times for 32 yards in Sunday's 20-16 loss to the Raiders.

Watson failed to eclipse the 200-yard mark in passing in all four of his starts this season. With a mediocre 1:1 TD:TO ratio in those four contests, the former fantasy star is looking like a shell of his former self in three seasons with Cleveland. Managers still holding out hope for the 2017 first-round pick are likely playing in deeper formats or two-QB leagues, as Watson is unlikely to garner big projections in a road matchup against Washington following a forgettable start to 2024.

Watson 21 of 37 passes for 196 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 21-15 loss to the Giants. He also threw a two-point conversion, rushed four times for 26 yards and fumbled twice, losing both.

Watson threw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Amari Cooper immediately after the Giants fumbled the opening kickoff, but Cleveland's next points didn't come until there was 11:33 left in the fourth quarter, when Watson tossed a six-yard touchdown pass to Cooper and added a two-point conversion to Jerry Jeudy. Watson finished the first half with only 67 passing yards and missed his first six throws after halftime before heating up to get the Browns back into the game, only to cool down again down the stretch as Cleveland's last two drives ended in turnovers on downs without a first down. After being sacked a career-high eight times by the Giants, Watson will hope to get better protection in Week 4 against the Raiders.

Watson completed 22 of 34 passes for 186 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions in Sunday's 18-13 win over the Jaguars. He added five rushes for 20 yards and a touchdown.

It was still far from a prolific performance, but Watson improved significantly compared to his dismal Week 1 showing. He avoided turnovers and showed the ability to distribute the ball down the field as he had three completions of at least 20 yards -- two of which went to Jerry Jeudy. Watson also accounted for the team's only touchdown with a one-yard touchdown run late in the first quarter. Overall, he was able to execute the offense fairly effectively, though it didn't lead to much fantasy success for himself or his skill-position players.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday that Watson will start Sunday's game at Jacksonville, NFL.com reports.

Stefanski directed reporters to the team's official statement from Tuesday, in which the Browns said they will "respect the due process our legal system affords" after a civil lawsuit filed Monday accused Watson of sexual assault and battery in Oct. 2020. Watson isn't expected to go on the commissioner's exempt list for now, with NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy saying Tuesday that the NFL will "look into the matter under the personal conduct policy." The NFL suspended Watson for 11 games and fined him $5 million in 2022, after at least two dozen women made allegations similar to those in the lawsuit filed Monday (he reached confidential settlements for 23 of the 24 civil suits).

The NFL is not expected to place Watson on the commissioner's exempt list after a civil lawsuit was filed Monday accusing him of sexual assault and battery in October 2020, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports. "We are reviewing the complaint, and we will look into the matter under the personal conduct policy. Not looking at commissioner's exempt list as there's been no formal charges and the league's review has just begun," league spokesperson Brian McCarthy said Tuesday.

Watson previously served an 11-game suspension, paid a $5 million fine and was ordered to undergo mandatory evaluation by behavioral experts and follow their suggested treatment program in 2022, after more than two dozen women accused him of sexual assault and inappropriate conduct during massage sessions. The lawsuit filed Monday represents a new complaint that the league will investigate and is one of two pending lawsuits filed against Watson, who had previously settled 23 of the 24 civil suits related to accusations of sexual misconduct.

Watson completed 24 of 45 passes for 169 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions in Sunday's 33-17 loss to the Cowboys. He added five rushes for 39 yards.

Watson was unable to move the Cleveland offense at any meaningful point in the game and averaged a disastrous 3.8 yards per attempt. Particularly troublesome was Watson's inability to distribute the ball effectively to his top pass catchers, as he was just 2-for-9 when targeting Amari Cooper and 3-for-8 when looking toward Jerry Jeudy. Dallas projects to be an above-average defense this season, but it will be difficult to trust any Browns' skill-position player regularly until Watson shows the ability to improve his level of play.

The Browns restructured Watson's contract Thursday by converting $44.8 million of his base salary into a signing bonus, freeing up $35.8 million in cap space, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports

Watson's restructure could be positioning Cleveland for impending roster moves, as the team now has a NFL-leading $62 million in available salary cap space. Meanwhile, Watson still carries a tremendous $72,9 million salary for the Browns in both 2025 and 2026. Now heading into his age-29 season, Watson is coming off a quiet preseason in which he was held out of exhibition action and received regular rest days while working his way back from offseason shoulder surgery. The team's Week 1 regular-season opener against the Cowboys will represent Watson's first game action since last November.

Watson won't play in Saturday's preseason finale against the Seahawks, Kelsey Russo of the Browns' official site reports.

Watson was able to participate in practice throughout the week leading up to the contest, but he was limited Wednesday due to what was described as general arm soreness. Though the signal caller returned to a full session Thursday, the Browns will play it safe with Watson, which sets the stage for his first game action since November of 2023 to occur Sept. 8 against the Cowboys. Per Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal, Jameis Winston is slated to draw the start at QB versus Seattle on Saturday.

Watson (arm) practiced fully Thursday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson's full participation arrives a day after he was limited with soreness in his surgically-repaired throwing shoulder on Wednesday. Though Watson worked without restrictions Thursday, it remains to be seen if the QB will see his first preseason action Saturday against the Seahawks.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday that Watson (arm) was limited in practice due to "general arm soreness," Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports.

Stefanski also said he hasn't yet made a decision on Watson's status for Saturday's preseason finale against the Seahawks, though Kelsey Russo of the team's official site reports that he said earlier this week that starters "should expect to play." Per Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal, Jameis Winston handled all the first-team reps at practice Wednesday with Watson being held out. Stefanski mentioned, though, that he's "not overly concerned" about Watson's health.

Watson is slated to play in the Browns' preseason finale against the Seahawks on Aug. 24, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson isn't in line to play Saturday against the Vikings in Cleveland's second preseason contest, but he's in line to see some action in the team's final exhibition outing. Per Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram, coach Kevin Stefanski has generally played most of the Browns' healthy starters, including the QB, in preseason finales during his tenure, and in that scenario Watson would be seeing his first game reps since Week 10 of the 2023 season.

Watson isn't expected to play Saturday versus Minnesota in Cleveland's second preseason contest, Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal reports.

Watson sat out the Browns' preseason opener against Green Bay and won't suit up for the second exhibition contest either. However, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports that the quarterback has been cleared for full contact and will get most of the reps in joint practices with the Vikings this week. It remains to be seen if Watson will participate in Cleveland's third and final preseason game Aug. 24 against Seattle.

Watson won't play in Saturday's preseason opener against the Packers, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports.

As a result, Jameis Winston will get the starting nod against Green Bay, with Tyler Huntley and Dorian Thompson-Robinson candidates to follow. Additionally, per Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer, coach Kevin Stefanski noted Tuesday that the Browns have yet to determine whether Watson will play in either the team's second or third exhibition contest.

Watson (shoulder) is participating in 11-on-11 drills at Friday's practice, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN.com reports.

Watson is taking 11-on-11 reps for the first time since undergoing offseason shoulder surgery, though he did participate in 7-on-7 activities during spring. Coach Kevin Stefanski said Thursday a decision hasn't yet been made on Watson potentially suiting up for either of Cleveland's three preseason games, but it doesn't appear that the 28-year-old quarterback is dealing with limitations at practice any longer. For the time being, Watson is commanding a thin first-team offense, with Jerry Jeudy (leg) and David Njoku (undisclosed) both limited to work on the side due to seemingly minor injuries, and Nick Chubb (knee) having started camp on the PUP list as he works his way back from a pair of surgeries.

Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski said Thursday that he was unsure whether Watson (shoulder) would appear in any of the Browns' three preseason games, Patrick Warren of the Browns' official site reports.

Watson, who had offseason shoulder surgery, has been throwing in camp, but the coach is being extra cautious at this stage. Stefanski said the coaching staff will discuss the quarterback's progress and make any playing decisions at the appropriate time.

Watson (shoulder) said Wednesday he's progressed to throwing daily, including with teammate Amari Cooper, as part of his rehab process, Nick Shook of NFL.com reports.

Watson declined to state whether he's yet been fully cleared for training camp, but it's encouraging to hear that his rehab has continued to ramp up without setbacks. He missed all but six games in 2023 due to surgery undergone last November to repair a displaced glenoid fracture in his right shoulder, and took reps in 7-on-7 drills during OTAs. The outlook of Cleveland's passing attack for 2024 depends not only on Watson's health, but also the presence of Cooper, who is negotiating for a new contract. Cooper skipped mandatory minicamp in June, and at this point his full attendance at camp isn't a total guarantee, so it's positive that he and Watson are already working on developing a rapport.

Watson (shoulder) is throwing passes in 7-on-7 drills Tuesday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

It's the first time Watson has thrown passes in 7-on-7s during the offseason, making this a tangible step forward on the first day of June minicamp. He seems to be on track for 11-on-11s at the start of training camp in late July, although it's not a guarantee given that the Browns seem inclined toward caution. Watson had surgery last November to repair a displaced glenoid fracture in his right shoulder -- an uncommon injury without any known precedent among NFL quarterbacks. He seems to be progressing as the Browns had hoped, with Petrak noting that Watson's throwing velocity looked good during Tuesday's practice.

Coach Kevin Stefanski noted Wednesday that Watson is throwing every other day as the QB continues his rehab from a season-ending shoulder injury, Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN reports.

Per Oyefusi, Watson threw passes during Tuesday's session, but didn't do so Wednesday, though he did participate in individual and team drills. In regard to how Watson has looked during the Browns' current OTAs, Stefanski noted that "he looked like himself to me. I've been able to watch him the last couple of weeks now that we've gotten into phase 2. So, I've seen him throw. He's making great progress. We will just continue to follow the medical team on this but he looks like himself." Watson is bouncing back from surgery last November to repair a displaced fracture to the glenoid in his throwing shoulder, so the Browns are proceeding deliberately with their top signal-caller in anticipation of him being ready for Week 1. With Watson not throwing Wednesday, Jameis Winston and Tyler Huntley took the bulk of the reps in team drills.

Browns GM Andrew Berry said Thursday that Watson (shoulder) has been making throws of up to 40 yards, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

While not quite willing to guarantee that Watson will be ready for the regular-season opener, Berry did confirm that's the expectation and said the Browns are "pretty optimistic" about the QB's rehab process so far. Watson spoke with reporters Tuesday, mentioning that the team medical staff favors a cautious approach that would see him wait until training camp before returning to full practice participation. The 28-year-old thus figures to be limited during OTAs, giving free-agent additions Jameis Winston and Tyler Huntley more chances to throw to the team's top receivers. The Browns traded for WR Jerry Jeudy in March and still have WRs Amari Cooper and Elijah Moore as well as TE David Njoku. There's also a strong chance of improved blocking this season, after 2023 saw the Browns lose their top three OTs to season-ending knee injuries. Watson is the biggest variable though, perhaps more so because of his disappointing 2022-23 performance than the ongoing rehab from Nov. 21 surgery to repair a displaced glenoi

Watson (shoulder) said Tuesday he's already resumed "throwing full speed" but that he's uncertain how large a workload he'll handle during OTAs and minicamp, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson clarified that certain members of the Browns' medical staff are in favor of a more conservative approach to the quarterback's recovery from right shoulder surgery, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram, which would wait until training camp to have him fully practice. Still, Watson has been fully forthright in his confidence to be available for the Browns' season opener, and there appear to be no real worries about his Week 1 status. In case Watson misses part of the offseason, or struggles during the fall, Cleveland can lean on newly-signed, experienced backups Jameis Winston and Tyler Huntley.

Watson, who is bouncing back from shoulder surgery he underwent Nov. 21, noted Thursday he has no doubt that he'll be ready for the Browns' season opener, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Per Cabot, Watson resumed throwing as of March 19, with the quarterback acknowledging that his recovery process is "day to day" and that he plans to "to take it one step at a time." In the coming months, part of that process will involve load management, with Watson expressing confidence that he'll be ready and in top form in advance of Week 1. That said, Watson figures to be eased back into the mix once the Browns resume on-field activities, a scenario that should result in newcomers Jameis Winston and Tyler Huntley seeing added signal-caller reps until Watson is deemed ready to practice without limitations.

Watson (shoulder) recently said on his QB Unplugged podcast that he's "in a great spot" and has "plenty of time to ramp up the throwing sessions," per Nick Shook of NFL.com.

Watson is believed to have resumed throwing in mid-to-late March, after undergoing surgery Nov. 21 to repair a displaced glenoid fracture in his right shoulder. He'll presumably be absent/limited throughout OTAs and minicamp but may be ready for full participation (or close to it) when the Browns open training camp in late July. While a fully guaranteed contract ensures Watson will get another shot as the starter despite his disappointing performance in 2022 and 2023, the Browns prioritized QB depth this offseason in signing experienced backups Jameis Winston and Tyler Huntley. They also upgraded their receiver group, trading for Jerry Jeudy and then signing him to a three-year extension.

Watson (shoulder) could begin light throwing as soon as Tuesday, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson will have limitations this spring after underdoing surgery Nov. 21 to repair a displaced fracture in his right shoulder socket, but the Browns expect him to be ready for training camp in late July. He's been rehabbing in Los Angeles, with private QBs coach Quincy Avery and Browns TE David Njoku flying out Monday to join him. While a fully guaranteed contract ensures Watson will get another chance as the starting QB after two disappointing seasons in Cleveland, the team has much better depth at his position for 2024 after signing Jameis Winston and Tyler Huntley earlier in March.

Watson (shoulder) is on track or slightly ahead in his rehab schedule and will begin throwing in March, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

The quarterback had surgery Nov. 21 to repair a fractured right shoulder socket. he resumed work in the weight room last week and is already discussing the possibility of organizing offseason throwing sessions with teammates for the third year in a row. New Browns offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey said he's optimistic about getting Watson back to the level of play he demonstrated in Houston, and the the QB's fully guaranteed contract ensures the Browns will give him another shot as the clear starter despite disappointing showings in the second half of 2022 and the first half of 2023. The contract runs through 2026, i.e., Watson's age-31 season.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said Sunday that Watson (shoulder) is expected to return from November shoulder surgery by the spring, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports. "He's doing great in rehab," Stefanski said. "I'm confident he'll be ready to roll."

If Watson's healthy by the spring as expected, he'll have the opportunity to go through a full offseason program and camp so he can hit the ground running for the 2024 season. Watson went 5-1 as Cleveland's starting quarterback in 2023 but threw for just 1,115 yards with a 7:4 TD:INT. He led the league with 4,823 passing yards as Houston's quarterback in 2020, but Watson hasn't come close to replicating that success as a member of the Browns.

Watson said Saturday that his recovery from November shoulder surgery is "right on track," Scott Petrak of The Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

While an exact recovery timetable for Watson hasn't been provided beyond his injury being season-ending, he's expected to be ready before the start of the 2024 season. Cleveland has cycled through PJ Walker, Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Joe Flacco as its starting quarterback options in Watson's absence, but Watson will almost certainly reclaim the starting role once healthy, and Saturday's update suggests he remains on track to be ready for the 2024 campaign.

Watson underwent surgery on the displaced fracture in his right throwing shoulder Tuesday, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

Watson sat out Weeks 4 and 6 due to a shoulder injury before playing in three of the Browns' next four games. After a Week 10 matchup with the Ravens, though, testing revealed that he was dealing with a season-ending concern. With the procedure in the rearview mirror, Watson now will focus on his recovery with an eye toward being health by the start of the 2024 campaign. In the meantime, Cleveland has turned over the offense to rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson, with PJ Walker backing him up and Joe Flacco on the practice squad.

The Browns officially placed Watson (shoulder) on injured reserve Wednesday.

This move is merely procedural after the Browns announced earlier Wednesday that Watson (ankle) was slated for season-ending surgery on a displaced fracture in his right throwing shoulder. He'll thus end his second campaign in Cleveland having completed 105 of 171 passes (61 percent) for 1,115 yards, seven touchdowns and four interceptions and rushing 26 times for 142 yards and another score in six appearances. There's an expectation that Watson will be healthy by the start of the 2024 season, but in the meantime, the Browns will entrust the offense in rookie fifth-round pick Dorian Thompson-Robinson on Sunday against the Steelers, with veteran PJ Walker serving as the backup QB.

The Browns announced Wednesday that Watson (ankle) will undergo season-ending surgery to address a displaced fracture in his right shoulder.

Watson previously missed three games and three quarters of another due to what had been described as a right rotator cuff strain, but he returned to action to start both of the Browns' past two contests. During Sunday's 33-31 win over the Ravens, Watson exited late in the second quarter after he appeared to injure his left ankle, but he missed just one snap and proceeded to complete all 14 of his pass attempts in the second half to help lead Cleveland to a come-from-behind victory. The Browns sent Watson in for what was described as a precautionary MRI on Monday, and unfortunately for the quarterback, he was diagnosed not only with a high-ankle sprain, but also a fracture in his throwing shoulder, which apparently stemmed from a hit he took in the first half against the Ravens. He'll head in for surgery on the shoulder in the coming days and will be placed on injured reserve, but the Browns fully expect Watson to be ready to go for the 2024 season. PJ Walker is expected to step in as the Browns' new starting

Watson is slated to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery.

Per the Browns, Watson will undergo a procedure to address a broken bone in his throwing shoulder and is in line to be placed on IR. In his absence, PJ Walker is on track to take over as the team's starting QB, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson on hand to back him up.

Watson (ankle) is still awaiting results from his MRI on Monday, but he said Tuesday that he expects to play Sunday against the Steelers, Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reports.

Watson said as long as his ankle isn't broken, torn or hanging by a ligament, he'll be suiting up for the divisional matchup. Per Cabot, the quarterback's injury isn't expected to be that severe, but fantasy managers should still wait for official confirmation from the MRI results. Watson suffered the injury late in the second quarter of last Sunday's narrow win over the Ravens and missed the final offensive snap of the first half but returned for the second half.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that Watson (ankle) will receive an MRI, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson is set for a MRI to diagnose the severity of the left ankle injury he sustained during Sunday's 33-31 win over the Ravens. He wore a walking boot after the game, but also expressed optimism that the issue wouldn't force him to miss any time. Still, the results of Monday's MRI will reveal more concrete information about Watson's chances of being available for Cleveland's divisional matchup against the Steelers in Week 11. PJ Walker remains the top backup behind Watson.

Watson (ankle) believes the left ankle injury he suffered in Sunday's 33-31 win over the Ravens won't force him to miss any time, Michael Baca of NFL.com reports. "Right now I'm not feeling well, but I'll be fine, I'll be ready to go," Watson said after the game while wearing a walking boot.

Watson elaborated that his left ankle was rolled up on by a Baltimore defender just before halftime. The quarterback went to the locker room late in the second quarter to have his ankle re-taped, and he never felt he was in danger of being ruled out. Watson played the second half of the comeback win and expects to be available when the Browns host the Steelers in a pivotal Week 11 clash between AFC North rivals.

Watson (ankle) completed 20 of 34 passes for 213 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 33-31 win over the Ravens. He added eight rushes for 37 yards.

Watson had only 79 yards on 20 attempts in the first half, but he led a comeback effort in the final quarter to earn the win and turn around his stat line. His lone touchdown came on a 10-yard throw while on the run to Elijah Moore, though he also connected on several longer throws to Amari Cooper and David Njoku. Watson hasn't delivered the fantasy performance expected of him this season, though his effort Sunday came against one of the better defenses in the league. To make things more difficult, Watson hurt his ankle late in the second quarter and was spotted with a boot after the game, per Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram.

Watson completed 19 of 30 passes for 219 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions in the Browns' 27-0 win over the Cardinals on Sunday. He also rushed three times for 22 yards.

Watson did seem to operate without restrictions after missing Week 8 with his lingering shoulder injury, uncorking throws at various depths of target and showing particularly impressive chemistry with top target Amari Cooper, who he connected with on five occasions for a team-high 139 yards and an 11-yard touchdown. Watson also hit David Njoku for a five-yard scoring strike in the third quarter, giving the veteran signal-caller his second multi-touchdown game of the campaign. Now seemingly healthy, Watson will have a tough assignment in a Week 10 road matchup against the Ravens.

Watson (shoulder) will start Sunday's game against the Cardinals.

Per Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram, Watson -- who doesn't carry a Week 9 injury designation won't have any limitations as he returns from his shoulder injury, according to coach Kevin Stefanski. With Watson set to return from a one-game absence, PJ Walker will revert to a backup role Sunday. While Cleveland's starting QB has been determined, the Cardinals have yet to announce whether Kyler Murray or Clayton Tune will get the assignment this weekend.

Watson (shoulder) was a limited practice participant Thursday.

After sitting out all three of the Browns' Week 8 prep while he focused on rehabbing his injured throwing shoulder, Watson appears to be on a better spot on the health front so far during Week 9. He's now been a limited participant in both of the Browns' first two practices of the week, with Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram noting that Watson "threw with more zip than at any point since he was injured Sept. 24 during a win over the Titans" during Wednesday's session. Even so, Watson told Jake Trotter of ESPN.com on Thursday that he's "not sure" he'll be able to play this weekend against the Cardinals, and the Browns could wait until after Friday's practice or even in the hours leading up to Sunday's 1 p.m. ET kickoff to make a decision on his status. For what it's worth, Zac Jackson of The Athletic relays that Watson was taking the first reps among Browns quarterbacks during Thursday's practice, perhaps hinting that the team is proceeding as though he'll be available to make the start Sunday.

Watson (right shoulder) acknowledged Thursday that he's "not sure" if he'll be able to play Sunday against the Cardinals, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

Per Trotter, Watson indicated that whether his Week 9 status is decided Friday or turns into a game-time decision Sunday is up to coach Kevin Stefanski. The QB was officially limited at practice Wednesday, and if Watson remains sidelined this weekend, PJ Walker would be in line to draw the start against Arizona, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson (shoulder), who will be listed as a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, didn't appear to be restricted with his throwing and took every rep with the first-team offense in the portion of the session that was open to the media, Zac Jackson of The Athletic reports.

Watson has sat out three of the Browns' past four games due to a rotator cuff strain in his right shoulder, with his lone appearance coming in a Week 7 loss to the Colts and lasting less than one quarter after he was shut down for the day when his ability to throw at full velocity appeared to be compromised. After sitting out all three of the Browns' Week 8 practices while focusing on rehabbing his throwing shoulder, Watson is seemingly in much better condition physically as Cleveland begins Week 9 prep. Jackson was one of several Browns beat writers that came away convinced about Watson's health in his return to practice Wednesday, with Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram going as far to say that Watson "threw with more zip than at any point since he was injured Sept. 24 during a win over the Titans." Head coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday that he wasn't yet ready to make a decision on Watson's status for Sunday's game against the Cardinals, though Stefanski noted that PJ Walker will draw a seco

Coach Kevin Stefanski relayed that Watson (shoulder) will practice on a limited basis Wednesday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

At this stage, the Browns' QB plans for Sunday's game against the Cardinals have yet to be solidified, but Stefanski did note Wednesday that PJ Walker would start this weekend if Watson is unavailable. Watson -- who was inactive for Cleveland's Week 8 loss to Seattle -- has been dealing with a rotator cuff strain to his right shoulder.

Watson (shoulder) is not expected to start Week 9 against Arizona, Terry Pluto of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Pluto's is the first report stating that Watson will not start Week 9, but it should be noted that the quarterback's status has been murky since Week 4. It would be wise to monitor the injury reports and comments from coaches as the Browns prepare this week for the Cardinals. If Watson is not available Sunday, then either PJ Walker or Dorian Thompson-Robinson will start.

Watson (shoulder) is considered week-to-week, but he is expected to avoid being placed on injured reserve, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Watson has already been ruled out for Sunday's matchup against the 49ers, but Schefter suggests he won't miss more than two weeks with the shoulder issue. That said, there has been a wide range of reports regarding Watson's status in what has been an ever-changing situation. P.J. Walker is in line to start so long as Watson remains sidelined.

Watson (shoulder) is officially listed as out for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, Kelsey Russo of the Browns' official site reports.

Coming out of Week 7 action, Watson was dealing with some residual swelling in his throwing shoulder, which prompted the Browns to play it safe with their top QB in the ensuing days and allow him to focus on rehabbing his injury. As a result, PJ Walker has already been named the starter for Sunday's contest, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson slated to serve as the team's top backup versus Seattle. Watson's next chance to see game action will arrive Nov. 5 against the Cardinals, but he's not a lock to be ready by then, per Jake Trotter of ESPN, with the signal caller noting that while he hopes to return "as soon as possible," he acknowledged Thursday that he's unsure when exactly when that will be.

Watson (shoulder) isn't participating in Thursday's practice, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski already announced that Watson won't start Sunday's game in Seattle after the veteran signal-caller didn't look to be fully healed from his right rotator cuff strain in his brief return from a two-game absence during the team's Week 7 win over the Colts. Though PJ Walker will get the starting nod Sunday, the Browns haven't officially ruled Watson out from being available as an emergency backup, though the 28-year-old's back-to-back absences at practice to begin Week 8 prep suggests that he's trending toward being inactive for the game. Look for Dorian Thompson-Robinson to serve as the No. 2 option behind Walker on Sunday while Watson focuses on rehabbing his shoulder this week. Stefanski confirmed Wednesday that an MRI on Watson's shoulder came back clean following his departure from the Week 7 game, but the signal-caller is still dealing with "residual swelling that's affecting his throwing," per Jake Trotter of ESPN.com. For his part, Watson told Trotter that while he won't

Watson, who will not start this weekend's game against the Seahawks, is slated focus on rehabbing his shoulder injury throughout the week and then rest on Sunday, Kelsey Russo of the Browns' official site reports.

With Watson dealing with some residual swelling in his shoulder at this stage, coach Kevin Stefanski announced Wednesday that PJ Walker is slated to start Sunday's contest, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson slated to be the team's backup quarterback versus Seattle. Per the report, the plan is to have Watson travel with the team this weekend, but the signal caller figures to be officially ruled out for Week 8 action once the Browns' final injury report of the week is posted Friday.

PJ Walker is slated to start Sunday's game against the Seahawks, while Watson focuses on rehabbing his injured throwing shoulder.

It remains to be seen if Watson is officially ruled out for the contest later this week, but the decision to start Walker this weekend was announced by coach Kevin Stefanski on Wednesday. With Watson not starting Sunday's contest, Dorian Thompson-Robinson is in line to serve as the Browns' No. 2 QB behind Walker versus Seattle.

Watson (shoulder) isn't slated to practice Wednesday, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

As Sunday's game against the Seahawks approaches, Watson's status remains unclear, with the QB now having two more chances to practice in some capacity ahead of Week 8 action. If Watson is unavailable this weekend, PJ Walker -- who was signed to the Browns' active roster Wednesday -- would be in line to draw the start versus Seattle.

Watson has a strain of the subscapularis within the rotator cuff Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Per the report, this type of injury in baseball normally causes pitchers to miss 4-to-6 weeks. He is hoping to shorten that window while rehabbing the injury, so it remains to be seen how long that will take. The veteran quarterback has missed two games of the past three weeks and took just 12 snaps in Week 7 before exiting. PJ Walker subsequently replaced him under center and is expected to continue doing so should Watson indeed miss more time.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that Watson will undergo additional medical testing to ensure the quarterback isn't dealing with any further damage to the right rotator cuff he strained Week 3, Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal reports. "We'll continue to take that day to day," Stefanski said, in regards to both Watson's availability for next Sunday's game in Seattle or whether the signal-caller will require a stint on injured reserve.

After missing two games over the past three weeks due to the shoulder injury, Watson practiced fully Friday and was given the green light to start in the Browns' Week 7 game against the Colts. However, Watson took just 12 snaps and completed one of five pass attempts for five yards and an interception before exiting in the first quarter and not returning to the Browns' eventual 39-38 win. The Browns never officially ruled Watson out for the game after he passed all concussion testing, but Stefanski said at halftime that he wasn't willing to expose Watson to any further injury to his shoulder, resulting in PJ Walker finishing out the contest. Assuming Watson's upcoming tests reveal nothing concerning, the Browns will presumably continue to evaluate him in practice this week before deciding whether he's fit to return to the starting role in Seattle.

Watson hopes to be able to practice this coming week and play in Week 8 against Seattle, but indicated that he needs to see how his shoulder feels in the wake of Sunday's 39-38 win over the Colts, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Per Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer, Watson acknowledged that he first went into the medical tent Sunday to have his shoulder checked out after a hard hit and then he subsequently went back in for a concussion test. While Watson was cleared after his concussion evaluation, his shoulder issue evidently remains a concern as next weekend's contest against Seattle approaches. If he's unable to play, PJ Walker would once again be called upon to fill in at QB for the Browns.

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said prior to the start of the third quarter of Sunday's game against the Colts that Watson (shoulder) hasn't been ruled out for the day but is unlikely to return to the contest, barring an injury to PJ Walker, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson, who missed the Browns' previous two games with a right rotator cuff strain and was listed as questionable heading into the day, started the Week 7 contest and completed one of five pass attempts for five yards and an interception before checking out of the game after taking a big hit with just over three minutes remaining in the first quarter. PJ Walker directed the offense for the ensuing four possessions of the first half and appears set to finish out the game behind center. Though Stefanski suggested that he doesn't want to expose Watson to further injury, the coach didn't confirm whether Watson aggravated his shoulder issue. The Browns haven't provided any official updates on Watson's status, beyond noting that he cleared concussion testing.

Watson exited in the first quarter of Sunday's game against the Colts with a possible aggravation of his right shoulder injury and is uncertain to return, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

After missing the Browns' previous two games with a right rotator cuff strain, Watson was listed as questionable heading into Sunday, but he was cleared to play shortly before kickoff and wasn't expected to face any limitations. The quarterback looked to be less than fully healthy during his time on the field, however, completing one of his first five pass attempts for five yards and an interception before exiting after he was hit by the Colts' Dayo Odeyingbo on a deep pass to Elijah Moore with 3:03 remaining in the first quarter. Watson was initially charged with his second interception of the day, but the call was later ruled an incompletion before the Browns punted the ball away. The Browns haven't confirmed whether Watson reinjured his throwing shoulder on the pass attempt in question, with the team merely announcing in the second quarter that the quarterback was cleared after a concussion evaluation. PJ Walker took over for Watson for the Browns' final four offensive possessions of the first half and cou

Watson (shoulder) is active and will serve as the Browns' starting quarterback in Sunday's game at Chicago.

Though he was listed as questionable heading into the weekend, Watson is set to return two-game absence and play for the first time since Week 3 after he was able to put in a full practice Friday and take all of the first-team reps during Saturday's walkthrough. According to Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer, Watson still has some microtears in his right rotator cuff, but he won't face any restrictions with his throwing or running as he re-enters the lineup. His return should provide a boost to the fantasy prospects of all of Cleveland's key pass catchers after rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson and journeyman PJ Walker drew one start apiece under center while Watson was out.

Watson (shoulder) remains listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Colts but is on track to start the contest, barring a setback prior to the 1 p.m. ET kickoff, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Rapoport notes that Watson took first-team reps during Saturday's walkthrough, which comes on the heels of the quarterback having returned to a full practice Friday. Though head coach Kevin Stefanski wasn't yet willing to commit to Watson making his return from a two-game absence this weekend, Stefanski relayed that the signal-caller looked good in his return to full activity Friday. Assuming the rotator cuff injury presents no unexpected complications while he throws in pregame warmups, Watson should be back under center Sunday. Through three appearances on the season, Watson has completed 63.7 percent of his passes for 678 yards, four touchdowns and two interceptions while adding 83 yards and a score on 15 carries.

Watson (right shoulder), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Colts, was officially deemed a full practice participant Friday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Watson has missed the Browns' last two games due to a rotator cuff strain in his throwing shoulder, but Friday's full practice participation represents a big step toward the QB's return to action, per Jake Trotter of ESPN. With that in mind, coach Kevin Stefanski hasn't yet committed to Watson starting this weekend, noting that he wants to see how the signal caller "responds over the next 48 hours based on that full workload that he just got." On the plus side, Stefanski said Watson "looked good" Friday. Fortunately for those considering Watson in Week 7 fantasy lineups, Cleveland kicks off at 1:00 ET on Sunday, and chances are by then there will further context regarding his status.

Watson (right shoulder) will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Colts, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer relays via coach Kevin Stefanski that Watson took his normal amount of practice reps on Friday, with Stefanski noting that he thought the QB "looked good" in doing so. As for Watson's Week 7 availability, Stefanski added that he wants to see how Watson's shoulder responds to the work he got in Friday before a determination is made, but at this stage the signal caller appears to be trending in the right direction ahead of Sunday's contest.

Watson (right shoulder) was listed as limited at practice Thursday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson, who is dealing with a right rotator cuff strain, didn't practice Wednesday, but his return to the field Thursday -- albeit in a limited capacity -- suggests that the QB has a chance to return from a two-game absence Sunday against the Colts. How Watson's shoulder responds to the work he saw Thursday will go a long way in determining which way he's trending ahead of Week 7 action, but if he ends up sidelined again this weekend, PJ Walker would be in line for another start in his place.

Offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt confirmed that Watson (shoulder) is slated to participate in practice in some capacity Thursday, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

Per Zac Jackson of The Athletic, Van Pelt noted that Watson -- who is dealing with a right rotator cuff strain -- is "scheduled to get out there and make some throws" Thursday. The Browns' upcoming injury report will clarify the QB's official participation level, but if Thursday's session goes well, Watson could potentially be in a position to return to action Sunday against the Colts.

Cleveland wideout Amari Cooper believes that Watson (shoulder) is in line to practice Thursday, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Though Cooper's comments Thursday offer some encouragement regarding the chances of Watson suiting up for Sunday's game against the Colts, it remains to be seen how the Browns will officially list the QB's participation level on the team's next injury report. It Watson is indeed able to get some work in Thursday, how his shoulder responds in the process would be important in determining which direction he's headed in advance of Week 7 action. If Watson is unavailable versus Indianapolis, PJ Walker would be in line for another start in his place.

Watson (shoulder) said Wednesday that he "can't put a timeline" on his return, ESPN.com's Jake Trotter reports.

Watson missed the past two games and was held out of practice Wednesday, but he said it's "up in the air" whether he'll be able to play Sunday at Indianapolis. He used the term 'day-to-day' and said he's dealing with a "microtear" in his rotator cuff, adding that he's still having difficulty throwing a football with strength. PJ Walker figures to make another start if Watson can't play against the Colts this Sunday.

Watson (shoulder) won't practice Wednesday, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

Per Trotter, coach Kevin Stefanski noted that the Browns aren't ruling Watson out for Sunday's game against the Colts as of now, but the QB's Week 7 status is cloudy at this stage. If Watson remains sidelined this weekend, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram relays via Stefanski that PJ Walker would be in line to start against Indianapolis.

Watson described the injury that has caused him to miss two straight games as a "rotator cuff strain," Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

At this stage, Watson indicates that it's still "up in the air" if he'll be available Sunday against the Colts. Wednesday's injury report will reveal whether the QB is able to log any on-field work in the Browns' first practice of the week, but if he remains sidelined versus Indianapolis, PJ Walker (who started this past weekend) would presumably be elevated from the team's practice squad ahead of Week 7 action.

Watson (shoulder) could be ready to return as soon as Week 7 against the Colts, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Schefter provided details of Watson's injury, describing it as a deep rotator cuff contusion that prevents him from driving the ball on throws. However, there appears to be optimism that he could return immediately following Sunday's matchup against the 49ers. Reports earlier in the week suggested that his absence could be extended, so the situation remains ambiguous overall.

Watson, who won't play Sunday against the 49ers, could miss additional time beyond Week 6 due to his right rotator cuff contusion, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

With Watson ruled out this week, PJ Walker is slated to start at quarterback, with Cabot suggesting that Watson is no lock to return to action Oct. 22 against the Colts. Per the report, Watson's injury is described as a deep contusion, and he's not expected to see game action again until he is able to throw normally and without pain. When Watson will be ready to throw pain-free remains to be determined, but for now, rest and rehab are in order with an eye toward avoiding a lingering issue.

Watson (right shoulder) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the 49ers, Kelsey Russo of the Browns' official site reports.

As a result, PJ Walker is slated to start at QB for the Browns on Sunday, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson in line to serve as the team's No. 2 QB. Watson will now target a potential return to action Oct. 22 versus the Colts.

Watson (bruised right shoulder) is expected to sit out Sunday's game against the 49ers, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Per Cabot, Watson -- who didn't practice Wednesday or Thursday -- is trending toward his second straight missed start, with Friday's final injury report slated to add official context to the QB's Week 6 status. In Watson's anticipated unavailability, PJ Walker is in line to serve as Cleveland's starter versus San Francisco.

Watson (right shoulder) remained sidelined at practice Thursday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Per Cabot, offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt said that it's still "up in the air" whether Watson will be able to face the 49ers on Sunday, though he did suggest that the QB could play this weekend even if he doesn't practice. With Watson still not practicing, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com notes that PJ Walker continued to handle first-team signal-caller snaps Thursday.

Watson (right shoulder) won't practice Wednesday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Per Cabot, Watson -- who suffered a right rotator cuff contusion Sept. 24 against the Titans and then sat out the Browns' Oct. 1 game against the Ravens -- is considered day-to-day as Sunday's contest against the 49ers approaches. With a Wednesday absence on tap, Watson now has two more chances to practice ahead of Week 6 action, but if he's unavailable this weekend, Dorian Thompson-Robinson (who started versus Baltimore) and practice squad member PJ Walker would be candidates to face San Francisco in place of Watson.

Watson is considered day-to-day as of Tuesday due to a bruised rotator cuff in his right throwing shoulder, and his status for Sunday's game against the 49ers is to be determined, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Prior to the Browns' Week 5 bye, Watson reportedly was medically cleared to play with the shoulder issue that impacted him during Week 4 prep, but he ultimately didn't feel comfortable doing so and thus was inactive against the Ravens on Oct. 1. With the bye behind him, he still didn't practice Monday but was able to throw, which perhaps is a sign he'll be able to manage a limited session on the Browns' first Week 6 injury report Wednesday. In any case, Watson's status is one to watch as the week goes on to get a sense of his potential to play Sunday. If Watson is unable to, rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson likely will get another start under center.

Watson (shoulder) did not suit up alongside his teammates for Monday's practice, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson reportedly practiced inside while his teammates worked on the outdoor field. The quarterback missed Week 4 due to a bruised right shoulder and was expected to be healthy following Cleveland's bye, so it will be worth keeping a close eye on his official practice designation on Wednesday, when the team's first official injury report of the week will come to light. Rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson struggled significantly while drawing a spot start in Watson's stead.

General manager Andrew Berry reiterated Wednesday that Watson's bruised right shoulder isn't a long-term concern, and the quarterback is expected to be ready to play Oct. 15 against the 49ers following the Browns' Week 5 bye, Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Berry's assessment of Watson's health essentially matches what Kevin Stefanski said on Monday, when the head coach noted that Watson had been medically cleared in advance of this past Sunday's 28-3 loss to the Ravens. Watson, however, made the decision to hold himself out of the contest after testing out his shoulder in pregame warmups and determining that he didn't think he could play at a winning level, per Tom Withers of the Associated Press. Rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson ended up getting the start in Watson's stead but struggled mightily, as the Browns generated just 166 yards of offense across 65 plays. The bye week comes at a convenient time for Watson, with Berry noting that the shoulder injury "will heal in the short term" and isn't expected to be a factor when the Browns return to action Week 6, per Jake Trotter of ESPN.com.

Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski said Monday that Watson (shoulder) was medically cleared for Week 4, but the quarterback made the decision not to play, Zac Jackson of The Athletic reports.

Rookie backup quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson filled in for Watson, as Cleveland's offense sputtered in a 28-3 loss to Baltimore. Stefanski backed up his medical staff while also acknowledging that Watson knows his body. "I'm comfortable with the medical," the coach said. "(Watson) just did not feel like he had his full faculties." All signs pointed to Watson being available, but the impression is that the Browns were caught off guard by Watson's decision. The quarterback should be ready to go for San Francisco in Week 6 following the team's bye week.

Watson (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Ravens.

Though reports heading into Sunday suggested that Watson was on track to play through his bruised right shoulder, the quarterback will ultimately sit out after his throwing didn't go as well as the Browns had hoped during pregame warmups, per Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer. Rookie fifth-round pick Dorian Thompson-Robinson will pick up his first NFL start in place of Watson, while PJ Walker -- whom the Browns elevated from the practice squad Saturday -- serves as Thompson-Robinson's backup. Cleveland is on bye Week 5, so Watson will have some extended time to rest his shoulder before the Browns return to action Oct. 15 versus the 49ers.

Watson (shoulder) is not in line to play Sunday against the Ravens, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

As a result, Dorian Thompson-Robinson is expected to start at QB for the Browns on Sunday. Watson will thus target a potential return to the starting lineup against the 49ers on Oct. 15.

Watson (shoulder) is expected to play in Sunday's Week 4 game against the Ravens, Kimberley A. Martin of ESPN reports.

Coach Kevin Stefanski and the Browns' training staff will watch Watson throw in pregame warmups Sunday morning before officially giving him the green light, according to Martin. Watson didn't throw in practice all week as he rested his throwing arm. As a precaution, the Browns promoted PJ Walker from the practice squad to presumably back up Dorian Thompson-Robinson in the event Watson doesn't get cleared to play.

The Browns are listing Watson (shoulder) as questionable for Sunday's game against the Ravens, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Watson, who was limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday, did some light throwing Friday, per Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram, with coach Kevin Stefanski indicating that he's hopeful Watson will be available this weekend. Fortunately for those considering Watson in Week 4 fantasy lineups, the Browns kick off at 1:00 ET on Sunday. In the event that Watson is out or limited against Baltimore, Dorian Thompson-Robinson would be next up for Cleveland's QB reps.

Watson (shoulder) was a limited practice participant Thursday.

Though the Browns listed Watson as a limited participant for the second day in a row, he at least appeared to take a step forward in his recovery Thursday by doing some throwing in the portion of practice that was open to the media, per Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal. Easterling notes that Watson wasn't throwing at full velocity, however, with most of his throws being dump-off passes to running backs or Browns staffers. In any case, the Browns maintain that Watson will be ready to start Sunday against the Ravens, even though his right shoulder is still a bit sore after he took a hard hit in last week's win over the Titans. Friday's injury report will reveal whether or not Watson enters Sunday's contest with a designation.

Watson (shoulder) was officially listed as limited in practice Wednesday, Scott Petrak of The Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Petrak relayed earlier Wednesday that Watson would be resting his right shoulder in practice. Throwing 102 passes over Cleveland's first three games has led to some shoulder fatigue for Watson, but it isn't expected to threaten his availability for Sunday's home game against the Ravens.

Watson (shoulder) didn't practice Wednesday, Scott Petrak of The Chronicle-Telegram reports.

Per Petrak, Watson was resting his right shoulder, but he isn't in danger of sitting out Sunday against the Ravens. While that's encouraging news, Watson's practice participation Thursday and Friday will still bear monitoring. After facing Baltimore, the Browns will have a bye in Week 5, which could allow Watson to properly rest his throwing shoulder.

Watson completed 27 of 33 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's 27-3 win over the Titans. He added four rushes for 16 yards.

Watson had been shaky in his first two games of the season, as he struggled with both accuracy and turnovers. He largely avoided those problems Sunday -- he fumbled once on a broken play but the ball was recovered -- and highlighted his performance with touchdown throws of 19 and 43 yards. The Titans have struggled in coverage to begin the year, but Watson took advantage of the positive matchup and should have renewed confidence heading into a Week 4 matchup against the division-rival Ravens.

Watson completed 22 of 40 passes for 235 yards with one touchdown and one interception while adding six rushes for 22 yards in the Browns' 26-22 loss to the Steelers on Monday night. He also lost two fumbles and ran for a two-point conversion.

Watson's busy but ultimately uneven stat line is somewhat of a microcosm of what is now a eight-game starting stint with the Browns. Watson's second fumble was also highly costly, as he lost the handle on a sack by Alex Highsmith and the ball was scooped up by T.J. Watt for a 16-yard touchdown that would turn out to be the difference in the game. The veteran quarterback still doesn't appear completely comfortable in head coach Kevin Stefanski's offense, and outside of his clear chemistry with Amari Cooper, Watson has had trouble consistently connecting with complementary options like Elijah Moore and Donovan Peoples-Jones over the first pair of contests this season. Watson could certainly also be affected by the loss of Nick Chubb to what appears to be a season-ending knee injury, as despite second-year back Jerome Ford's impressive showing in Chubb's stead Monday night, there will likely be more defensive attention focused on Cleveland's air attack for the time being. Watson does draw a favorable matchup on

Watson completed 16 of 29 passes for 154 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 24-3 win over the Bengals. He also rushed five times for 45 yards, one rushing touchdown and a two-point conversion.

Neither offense produced any first-quarter points in slick conditions, but Watson led a scoring drive that put the Browns up 3-0 early in the second quarter, then found the end zone from 13 yards out on a designed quarterback run with 17 seconds left in the first half. While Watson was effective as a runner, he struggled to generate much through the air and was intercepted in the third quarter, though he bounced back with a three-yard touchdown pass to Harrison Bryant in the fourth quarter. Joe Burrow threw for only 82 yards, so Watson's passing struggles can be chalked up at least in part to the inclement weather. Watson should be sharper through the air on Monday Night Football in Week 2 against a Steelers team that got pummeled 30-7 by the 49ers.

Watson completed five of his 10 pass attempts for 92 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions Saturday against the Chiefs.

As his line indicates, Watson had a slow start to his final preseason tuneup. Through two possessions, he had completed only two of his five attempts and also lost a fumble. From there, things greatly improved as he completed a nice touch pass to the corner of the end zone for a 10-yard score to David Njoku. One possession later, he set up another score after he navigated around the pocket and found Amari Cooper for a deep 53-yard completion. While uneven, Watson closed his final tuneup before a Week 1 matchup against the Bengals in positive fashion.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said Sunday that Watson and the Browns' starters are slated to play early in Saturday's preseason finale in Kansas City, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson only played a single possession in his lone preseason appearance thus far, but Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports that most starters will play 20-25 snaps in the finale. Still, that doesn't preclude Watson from leaving the field before the rest of the starting offense, especially if Cleveland's coaching staff wants to get a more extended look at Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who has flashed in preseason action so far.

Dorian Thompson-Robinson is slated to start at QB for the Browns in Thursday's preseason game against the Eagles, with most of the team's starters expected to rest, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. Watson logged 12 snaps in last Friday's contest against the Commanders.

Along with Thompson-Robinson Cabot previously indicated that Kellen Mond will also play Thursday, while Joshua Dobbs will not. The Browns close out their preseason slate Aug. 26 against the Chiefs.

Watson completed all three of his passes for 12 yards and gained 20 rushing yards on three carries in Friday's preseason loss to the Commanders.

The Browns used their first-team offense for only one possession, but Watson looked sharp when he was on the field and nearly led his team to a touchdown, only for John Kelly to get stuffed at the goal line on fourth down. After a tough introduction to Cleveland in 2022, Watson should be able to rebound this season, but after sitting out the entire 2021 campaign the 27-year-old has to prove he's still capable of posting the kinds of fantasy numbers he routinely rang up over his final three years in Houston.

Watson is slated to start Friday's night's preseason game against the Commanders, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson isn't sure how much action he'll see Friday, but after not playing in last Thursday's Hall of Fame game against Jets, the Browns' top QB is slated to see his first exhibition snaps in 2023. In that context, it seems likely that the team's other healthy starters will also take the field in some capacity versus Washington.

Watson won't play in Thursday's Hall of Fame Game against the Jets, Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com reports.

Neither will backup Joshua Dobbs, who is trying to fend off young QBs Kellen Mond and Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Coach Kevin Stefanski named Mond his starter for the Hall of Fame Game, though it won't be surprising if Thompson-Robinson ends up playing more. Watson, meanwhile, is locked in as the Week 1 starter and doesn't figure to get much playing time (if any) this preseason.

Watson and the Browns agreed Monday to restructure his contract, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Cleveland opens up $36 million in cap space ahead of free agency by restructuring Watson's deal, giving the team more room to maneuver. The Browns may prioritize adding to Watson's current complement of skill-positions players in free agency and April's upcoming draft, a group currently headlined by Amari Cooper, David Njoku and Donovan Peoples-Jones. In his six starts last season, Watson threw just seven touchdowns with five interceptions, while averaging a mediocre 183.7 passing yards per game.

Watson completed 19 of 29 passes for 230 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in Sunday's 28-14 loss to Pittsburgh. He added six rushes for 44 yards.

Watson had an up-and-down performance to close the 2022 season. He led a drive early in the second quarter that he concluded with a 10-yard touchdown pass, but he then followed that up with an interception on the following possession to change the momentum of the game. After returning from a more than year-long layoff, Watson has understandably shown rust across the final six games of the campaign. It remains to be seen whether he can regain the dynamic playmaking ability he showed while with the Texans, though he'll enter the 2023 season with key offensive playmakers such as Amari Cooper, Donovan Peoples-Jones and David Njoku still on the roster.

Watson completed nine of 18 passes for 169 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions in Sunday's 24-10 win over the Commanders.

Watson attempted his fewest passes of the season, though it was by far his most efficient performance. He averaged 9.4 yards per attempt and also managed his first multi-touchdown performance of the campaign on strikes from 46, 13 and 33 yards away. Watson still appears to be working on finding a rhythm with his new team, though Sunday's performance was his most encouraging in a Browns uniform.

Watson completed 15 of 31 passes for 135 yards with no touchdowns and one interception in the Browns' 17-10 loss to the Saints on Saturday. He also rushed three times for 24 yards and a touchdown.

Watson's lackluster final line tells the story of how sluggish an offensive performance it was overall in the frigid conditions in Cleveland. Watson found his most success when targeting Amari Cooper, who he hit on six occasions for 72 yards, and he also put some points on the board with a 12-yard scoring scramble on the first play of the second quarter. However, success through the air was unsurprisingly elusive due to the weather and a stingy Saints secondary, leaving Watson with his third sub-200-yard effort in the first four games of his Browns career. The loss eliminated Cleveland from postseason contention, but Watson will aim to continue knocking off rust in a Week 17 road matchup against the Commanders on Jan. 1.

Watson completed 18 of 28 passes for 161 yards, one touchdown and no interceptions in Saturday's 13-3 win over the Ravens. He added six rushes for 22 yards.

The Browns were in a positive game script for much of the contest, which allowed them to run a balanced offense. Watson wasn't asked to carry the team as a result, though he still struggled to a subpar 5.8 yards per attempt. Despite the inefficiency, he didn't turn the ball over and also managed to connect with Donovan Peoples-Jones for a three-yard touchdown late in the third quarter -- Watson's second score in three games this season. While there have been glimpses of promise in the last two weeks, Watson has also been held below 200 passing yards in two of his three starts.

Watson completed 26 of 42 passes for 276 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's 23-10 loss to the Bengals. He added 33 yards on six rushing attempts.

After a shaky Browns debut last week, Watson looked marginally more comfortable in his second appearance. His first two passes went for gains of 18 and 13 yards, and he finished the first quarter with completions on all four of his attempts, though neither team produced any points. Watson's first touchdown pass in a Cleveland uniform came in the third quarter, when he found tight end David Njoku from 13 yards out, but Watson was picked off on the following possession. He's still shaking off the rust from his extended layoff, which will make Watson a risky fantasy option in Week 15 against the Ravens as many leagues begin their playoffs.

Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski that he'd feel comfortable calling designed runs for Watson in Sunday's game against the Bengals, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

The big topic coming out of Watson's season debut last week was the quarterback's rust. It showed. While he should improve with a game under his belt, Stefanski can't expect the Pro Bowl-version of the Watson. That means a heavy reliance on running back Nick Chubb and potentially Watson used as a runner at times. "We'll see how it goes. Game-plans change week to week. Sometimes it will call for him to run a lot. Sometimes it will call for him not to run at all," the coach said. Watson was a frequent runner while with the Texans -- sometimes out necessity -- and his legs may come back sooner than his arm.

Watson acknowledged there are timing issues as he returns to the field following a lengthy absence from game action, Chris Easterling of the Akron Beacon Journal reports. ""All of that stuff's gotta come back and, like I said last week, I don't know when it's gonna come back. I don't know if it was gonna be last week, this week. My job is to just keep getting better and when it clicks it, it clicks and everyone will feel that," the quarterback said.

Watson was naturally underwhelming last week, his first regular-season game played in 700 days. He may not return to the Pro Bowl form he displayed prior to his nearly two years away from the game this week against the Bengals, but the quarterback sounds confident that form will come back. Watson said he was able to get a feel for the "speed of the game and how defenses adjust," but there were noticeable timing issues with receivers, often throwing short or behind targets. Watson will get the opportunity to further acclimate Sunday, as head coach Kevin Stefanski said there are no plans to start Jacoby Brissett in what will be a matchup critical to Cleveland's slim playoff hopes.

Cleveland head coach Kevin Stefanski said Watson will start Week 14 against the Bengals, despite the rust he showed in last week's win over the Texans, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. " Deshaun is our quarterback. We're focused on having a really good day of practice [Wednesday] and having a great day on Sunday," the coach said.

Watson completed 12 of 22 passes for 131 yards with no touchdowns, a 53.9 rating and an interception Week 13. The rust was evident after not playing a game since 2020. At 5-7, the Browns hope to keep their slim playoff chances alive -- currently at nine percent per Five-Thirty-Eight and three percent according to the New York Times' playoff indicator -- but Stefanski has no plans to use an in-sync Jacoby Brissett and will stick with Watson, whose passes last week were often low or off target. The quarterback looked sharp during Wednesday's practice, but those sessions are much different than game conditions.

Watson completed 12 of 22 passes for 131 yards, no touchdowns and one interception in Sunday's 27-14 win over the Texans. He added seven rushes for 21 yards.

Watson made his first start since Week 16 of the 2020 season, and -- as expected -- he showed plenty of rust. He managed a few chunk gains, highlighted by a deep pass down the field to Donovan Peoples-Jones for a 27-yard gain. However, Watson struggled with inaccuracy, and he also forced a pass late in the first quarter that resulted in an interception at the goal line. Positively for Watson, the Browns could rely on the run game and still defeat the Texans, so he'll look to get up to speed in time for a more daunting Week 14 matchup against the Bengals.

Watson was officially added to Cleveland's 53-man roster Monday and is expected to start Sunday's game against the Texans, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

After waiting 700 days since his last NFL appearance, Watson will make his return against his former team Sunday. Joshua Dobbs was waived in a corresponding move to make room on the roster for Watson, while Jacoby Brissett will be relegated to a backup role.

Watson has complied with the terms of his 11-game suspension and will be officially reinstated by the NFL on Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

After being handed the ban Aug. 18, Watson was placed on the reserve/suspended list at the conclusion of the preseason and had been away from the Browns for about a month and a half before he was cleared in mid-October to resume working out at the team facility and attending meetings. Watson was then cleared to resume practicing Nov. 14, and once he gets another week of practice under his belt during the upcoming week, he'll unseat Jacoby Brissett as the Browns' new starting quarterback beginning with the team's Dec. 4 in Houston. Watson's return to the lineup against his former Texans squad will mark his first regular-season appearance in 700 days, as he last took the field in Houston's Week 17 game in 2020.

Watson (suspension) is eligible to begin practicing Monday and remains on track to make his Browns and season debuts Week 13 in Houston, The Athletic reports.

According to the terms of the 11-game suspension he received Aug. 30 for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, Watson remained away from the Browns from the end of the preseason through Oct. 10, when he was eligible to rejoin the team facility. Over the past month, Watson was able to work out and the facility and sit in during team meetings, but now he'll be able to take the practice field with the rest of his teammates for the next three weeks before suiting up on game day for the first time. General manager Andrew Berry said back on Nov. 2 that Watson will reclaim the starting quarterback job when first available Week 13, and there's little reason to think that the Browns' plans on that front have changed while the team has gotten off to a 3-6 start to the season with Jacoby Brissett presiding over the offense.

Browns general manager Andrew Berry said Wednesday that Watson (suspension) will start Week 13 against the Texans on Dec. 4, the first game the quarterback will be eligible to make his Cleveland debut, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Though Berry noted that fill-in starter Jacoby Brissett has been "everything we hoped" while directing the offense through the team's first eight games, the Browns didn't trade for Watson and then sign him to a lavish extension to have him sit on the bench. Berry's comments thus don't come as a surprise, but they at least indicate that Watson has been able to stay on track with his workouts since he began serving his 11-game suspension following the preseason. Per the terms of his suspension, Watson was able to return to the Browns' team facility Oct. 10 to take part in meetings and workouts, but he's not eligible to resume practicing until Week 11. Assuming the Browns' plan to have him start Week 13 doesn't change, Watson will be making his first regular-season appearance since Jan. 3, 2021, as he sat out the entire past season while he was still a member of the Texans.

Watson (suspension) rejoined the Browns on Monday and is eligible to attend meetings and work out at the team facility, Tom Withers of the Associated Press reports.

Per the conditions of his 11-game suspension, Watson won't be able to practice with the Browns until Nov. 14, but he'll at least be able to have some involvement in a team structure over the next month. Once he begins practicing, Watson will have to wait three more weeks to make his 2022 and Browns debut, which is expected to come Week 13 in Houston on Dec. 4. Until that time, the 2-3 Browns will hope that Jacoby Brissett can keep the team in playoff contention while he continues to start under center.

The Browns placed Watson on the reserve/suspended list Tuesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

The transaction is merely a formality, as Watson's placement on the list allows the Browns to whittle their roster down to 53 men prior to Tuesday's deadline. Though he's ineligible to make his Browns debut until Week 13 in Houston while he serves his 11-game suspension, Watson is able to return to the team's facility Oct. 10. He'll be able to resume practicing Nov. 14 and is eligible to be reinstated to the roster Nov. 28, assuming he complies with the conditions of the settlement and treatment plan that accompanied his suspension. Jacoby Brissett is on track to open the season as the Browns' starting quarterback while Watson is unavailable.

Coach Kevin Stefanski noted Thursday that Watson won't play in the Browns' final two preseason games, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Watson has been suspended for the first 11 games of the 2022 season for violating the NFL's personal-conduct policy. Per NFL.com, the quarterback's suspension will take effect on Aug. 30, after which he will be eligible for reinstatement on Nov. 28 and eligible to play in Week 13 against the Texans. Jacoby Brissett is in line to fill in as the Browns' starter to begin the coming season while Watson is unavailable, with Joshua Dobbs and Josh Rosen currently rounding out the team's QB depth chart.

The NFL and NFLPA have agreed to a settlement that will result in Watson serving an 11-game suspension to start the coming season, Jake Trotter of ESPN.com reports.

Additionally, Watson will pay a $5 million fine for violating the league's personal conduct policy. The Browns' QB will be eligible to return to action in Week 13, with Jacoby Brissett in line to fill in as the team's starter while Watson is unavailable.

Watson's representatives and the NFL Players Association are reportedly actively negotiating a discipline settlement with the NFL, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

The report notes that as Watson awaits designee Peter C. Harvey's ruling on the NFL's appeal of his six -game suspension, the two sides have continued to negotiate, with Cabot indicating that a settlement could potentially be reached within the next few days. NFL Network's Judy Battista previously noted that the league is seeking a one-year suspension for Watson, but Cabot suggests that if a settlement can be reached, the quarterback could take the field at some point during the regular season.

Watson completed one of five passes for seven yards in Friday's 24-13 preseason win over Jacksonville.

Watson played the first three drives, and the team failed to pick up a first down during his time in the game. He was understandably rusty after sitting out all of last season, but Watson should continue to get ample opportunities to find his game throughout the remainder of the preseason before sitting out at least the first six games of the regular season, at minimum, due to a suspension. Watson will look to put forth a sharper performance in Cleveland's second preseason game, Aug. 21 against the Eagles.

Watson remains slated to play in Friday night's preseason game against the Jaguars, James Palmer of NFL Network and Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer report.

As Friday's 7:00PM ET kickoff approaches, NFL designee Peter C. Harvey -- who was appointed by commissioner Roger Goodell to hear the league's appeal of Watson's six-game suspension -- has yet to render a decision that might affect the quarterback's status. Per Cabot, Watson was present for warmups ahead of Cleveland's contest versus Jacksonville, which he is in line to start.

Watson is in line to start Friday's preseason opener against the Jaguars, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

The report notes, however, that the Browns' plan to start Watson on Friday could change in the event that NFL designee Peter C. Harvey -- who was appointed by commissioner Roger Goodell to hear the league's appeal of Watson's six-game suspension -- makes his determination before the contest and recommends a year-long suspension for the quarterback. At this stage, though, there isn't a timetable for the decision.

Watson (suspension) will travel to Jacksonville for Friday's preseason game and could see his first live action since the end of the 2020, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Regardless of how things play out with his suspension, Watson is eligible for training camp and preseason games. Judge Sue Robinson recommended a six-game ban, which the NFL is now appealing. The appeal will be heard by former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey, who was selected last week by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Expect both Watson and Jacoby Brissett to get some snaps with the first-team offense this summer.

The NFL Players Association has responded in writing to the NFL's appeal of disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson's decision to recommend a six-game suspension for Watson for violating the league's personal conduct policy, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Barring a settlement between the NFL and NFLPA, the appeal will be heard by former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey, who was appointed to do so Thursday by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. Citing a source familiar with the appeal, NFL Network's Judy Battista indicated that the league is seeking a one-year suspension for Watson. According to ESPN.com, there's no timeline for when Harvey will hear the appeal, but the report notes that according to the league's personal conduct policy, it's in line to be done on an expedited basis.

Commissioner Roger Goodell has designated former New Jersey attorney general Peter C. Harvey to hear the league's appeal of Watson's six-game suspension for violating the league's personal-conduct policy, NFL.com reports.

On Wednesday, the NFL announced that it would appeal disciplinary officer Judge Sue L. Robinson's ruling, which called for a six-game suspension for the Browns QB. Citing a source familiar with the appeal, NFL Network's Judy Battista indicated that the league is seeking a one-year suspension for Watson. The NFL Players Association, which initially stated it wouldn't appeal Robinson's decision, has until Friday to respond to the league following Thursday's announcement. The report notes that under the league's personal-conduct policy, the appeal will be processed on an expedited basis and will be based on a "review of the existing record."

The NFL opted to appeal Watson's six-game suspension Wednesday, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

On Monday, NFL disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson issued her ruling in the investigation into Watson's multiple accusations of sexual misconduct. At the time, the NFLPA announced that it wouldn't appeal the suspension, but the league has decided to. With the appeal filed, it now will be on commissioner Roger Goodell (or his designee) to review the determination and then issue a decision that will constitute final disposition of the dispute, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

The NFL released a statement Monday following disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson's decision to recommend a six-game suspension for Watson for violating the league's personal conduct policy, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Per Pelissero, the NFL has yet to decide whether to appeal Robinson's ruling, with the statement noting, "pursuant to the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the NFL or the NFLPA on behalf of Watson may appeal the decision within three days. In light of her findings, the league is reviewing Judge Robinson's imposition of a six-game suspension and will make a determination on next steps." Jake Trotter of ESPN notes that if Watson's suspension is upheld, the quarterback will still be able to participate in practice during the preseason and would be eligible to be reinstated in advance of the Browns' Oct. 23 game at Baltimore.

Per a ruling from NFL disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson, Watson is slated to be suspended for the first six games of the 2022 season, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.

Prior to Robinson's determination having been reported, the NFL Players Association announced that it would not appeal the ruling. Per Peliserro, the NFL has three days to file an appeal, and if that occurs, it would be heard by Roger Goodell or his designee.

NFL disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson's decision regarding a possible Watson suspension is expected to be announced Monday, Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

Per Cabot, the NFL reportedly argued for an indefinite suspension of the quarterback under the league's Personal Conduct Policy for at least the coming season (with a chance to apply for reinstatement afterward), while the NFL Players Association argued for a shorter length of time. The report notes that once Robinson's ruling arrives, either side can appeal to league Commissioner Roger Goodell. Watson, who has been participating in training camp, has been taking the Browns' first-team QB reps at practice, while Jacoby Brissett -- who would be in line to start if Watson is suspended -- has handled second-team snaps.

Coach Kevin Stefanski noted Wednesday that Watson and Jacoby Brissett will share the Browns' first-team QB snaps to begin training camp, Jake Trotter of ESPN reports. "I wouldn't get into like the exact percentage," Stefanski said of how the two will split work in practice, "but they're both going to get a ton of reps."

Meanwhile, Stefanski reiterated Wednesday that Brissett would serve as Cleveland's starting signal caller in the event Watson is suspended by the NFL. The report adds that league disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson continues to weigh whether Watson violated the league's personal conduct policy. At this time, there is no timetable for when her determination on the matter will occur.

Watson's hearing before the NFL and NFLPA's jointly appointed disciplinary officer ended Thursday, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

After three days in front of the officer, the league is drawing closer to concluding its 15-month long investigation into Watson, who faced 24 civil suits for allegations of sexual misconduct. All but four of those were settled Tuesday, June 21, and among them one suit added his former team, the Texans, as a defendant Monday. According to Cabot, the officer requested post-hearing briefs from both parties, which need to be filed by July 6. Once those are submitted, a ruling on Watson's punishment likely won't be announced until mid-July, at the earliest, after which he'll have an opportunity to appeal any proposed suspension. As Cabot reported Monday, the NFL is aiming for an indefinite ban of at least one year.

Watson's hearing in front of the NFL and NFLPA's jointly appointed disciplinary officer began Tuesday and will continue Wednesday and perhaps beyond that point, Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.

The NFL is at the tail end of its 15-month long investigation into Watson's legal situation, which included 24 civil suits for allegations of sexual misconduct. Of those, 20 were settled last Tuesday, while four are pending, with one of them amending its wording Monday to name the Texans as a defendant. According to Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer, the league is seeking an indefinite suspension of at least one year, but there remains no timetable for the disciplinary officer to make a decision on the matter.

Watson has reached confidential settlements in 20 of the 24 civil lawsuits filed against him, NFL.com and Sarah Barshop of ESPN report.

In a statement Tuesday, NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy noted "today's development has no impact on the collectively bargained disciplinary process." The quarterback, who was traded from the Texans to the Browns in March, faces potential discipline from the NFL, which is independently investigating whether Watson violated the league's personal-conduct policy. The NFL.com report indicated that a timeline for such a determination has not been provided.

Watson is in Cleveland on Tuesday for the start of the Browns' offseason program, while fellow quarterback Baker Mayfield (shoulder) isn't in attendance, Mary Kay Cabot of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.

As expected, given that Mayfield reportedly requested a trade in mid-March when the Browns were revealed to be pursuing Watson, who ultimately chose Cleveland over Atlanta and New Orleans. The Browns still have a few things to hash out in their QB room before Week 1, starting with a possible NFL suspension for Watson and a trade to find Mayfield a new home. Potential fits for Mayfield include Seattle and Carolina, though it isn't clear either team is willing to give up anything significant for the 27-year-old QB. Watson, 26, is still facing civil suits for allegations of sexual misconduct, after a Harris County, TX grand jury voted not to indict him on criminal charges in March.

Watson is waiving his no-trade clause to facilitate a trade to the Browns, changing his mind Friday after reports earlier in the week suggested he'd ruled the team out, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Numerous reports had Watson deciding between the Saints and Falcons, after the Panthers and Browns came up short in their efforts to woo him. With the QB now changing his mind, Houston and Cleveland will finalize terms of a a trade, while Watson already has a contract arrangement in place with his soon-to-be team, getting a five-year, $230 million deal that's fully guaranteed, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. A grand jury recently declined to indict Watson on criminal charges, but he's still facing civil suits (and potentially an NFL suspension) for allegations of sexual misconduct. Charles Robinson of Yahoo reports the trade for Watson will include three first-round picks and two additional draft picks heading from Cleveland to Houston.

The Saints and Falcons remain in the mix to trade for Watson, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

The report notes that the Browns and Panthers are no longer candidates to make a deal for the quarterback, who remained on Houston's roster last season but did not suit up for any games. Last week, a grand jury declined to indict Watson on criminal charges stemming from allegations of sexual misconduct and since then there's been movement toward the Texans dealing the 2017 first-rounder, who must waive his no-trade clause for that to transpire.

The Browns are set to meet with Watson in Houston on Tuesday, Aaron Wilson of Pro Football Network reports.

Teams are lining up to talk with Watson, who met with the Panthers and Saints on Monday. Those two clubs have reportedly submitted proposals, and now Cleveland's leadership team will attempt to sway Watson. The Browns have Baker Mayfield under contract for 2022 -- the final year of his rookie deal -- but they are open to the idea of an upgrade at the position.

A grand jury in Harris County Texas has declined to indict Watson in the wake of a police investigation stemming from lawsuits filed by 22 women who have accused the quarterback of sexual misconduct, ESPN's Sarah Barshop reports.

As a result, Watson won't face criminal charges related to the allegations, but he still faces civil case depositions and possible discipline from the NFL. A statement released by NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy on Friday noted the league has "been closely monitoring all developments in the matter which remains under review of the personal conduct policy."

Texans head coach Lovie Smith said Wednesday that he has "no idea" if Watson (not injury-related) will be on the Texans' roster this season, Aaron Reiss of The Athletic reports.

Watson remained on Houston's roster throughout the 2021 campaign while he dealt with investigations relating to 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual assault and misconduct, but he was a healthy scratch for every game. His situation remains murky, and based on Smith's comments, it appears that Houston will head into the 2022 NFL Draft operating as if Watson won't be available once again.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game versus the Titans.

As has been the case all season for Watson. Davis Mills again will direct the Texans offense Week 18, while Tyrod Taylor is around to serve as his backup.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the 49ers.

With Watson headed for the inactive list Week 17, Davis Mills is on track to handle Houston's starting quarterback duties. Tyrod Taylor will serve as Mills' backup.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Chargers.

Watson remains away from the team and isn't expected to rejoin the Texans for workouts or any activities over the final two weeks of the regular season. Davis Mills will continue to serve as Houston's starting quarterback this weekend, with Tyrod Taylor on hand as his backup.

Watson's agent said the quarterback is "super confident" in how his legal situation will play out, Greg Rajan of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Agent David Mulugheta touched on Watson's situation in a wide-ranging interview on the "Face/First" podcast hosted by Ryan Clark, an ESPN analyst and former NFL safety. Mulugheta could not get into specifics, but he made several references to "the truth." "We're pretty confident how this thing plays out. He's super confident in how it plays out," the agent said. "(In) today's society, unfortunately it's not about who's right, it's about who's first. So it's unfortunate but as somebody who's considered ... a public figure (there's) certain things you've got to deal with." Watson faces 22 civil lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct as investigations by the Houston Police Department, FBI and NFL are ongoing.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.

While Watson is slated to land on the inactive list as he has all season long, Davis Mills is on track to handle Houston's starting quarterback duties this weekend, with Tyrod Taylor set to serve as his backup.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Seahawks.

Watson is still on the Texans' roster, but he's in line to be on the team's inactive list for the rest of the season. Meanwhile, Davis Mills is on track to handle Houston's starting quarterback duties Sunday, with Tyrod Taylor slated to serve as his backup.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Colts.

Watson remains on the Texans' roster, but he's slated to be on the team's inactive list for the rest of the season. Tyrod Taylor is in line to handle Houston's starting quarterback duties Sunday with Davis Mills slated to serve as his backup.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Jets.

While Watson remains on the Texans' roster, he's on track to be on the team's inactive list for the rest of the season. Tyrod Taylor is in line to handle Houston's starting quarterback duties this weekend, with Davis Mills slated to serve as his backup.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Titans.

Though Watson remains on the Texans' roster after not being dealt ahead of the NFL's Nov. 2 trade deadline, he's now slated to remain a fixture on the team's inactive list in the coming weeks. Tyrod Taylor is in line to handle the team's starting QB duties on Sunday, with Davis Mills set to serve as his backup.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

Watson wasn't traded ahead of the NFL's Nov. 2 trade deadline, and now he's poised to remain a fixture on the Texans' inactive list in the coming weeks. As for Week 9, Tyrod Taylor (hamstring) is slated to come off IR and reclaim the team's starting QB assignment, which had been held by Davis Mills since Taylor was injured in Week 2.

Watson (not injury-related) didn't practice Wednesday.

After Houston failed to find a team willing to meet its asking price for Watson ahead of the Nov. 2 trade deadline, the quarterback looks poised to sit out the remainder of the 2021 season. Fantasy managers in redraft leagues who had been stashing Watson with the hope that he was dealt elsewhere at the deadline can feel free to move on, as the Texans appear committed to keep him inactive for their remaining nine games. Watson hasn't practiced with the team since the conclusion of the preseason.

The Texans aren't expected to strike a deal to trade Watson before Tuesday's trade deadline, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

The Dolphins have been mentioned as the most likely candidate to make a move for Watson, but according to Schefter the details of a trade never were agreed to. On top of that, Miami owner Stephen Ross only received permission to speak with Watson on Monday night, which didn't give the team enough time to complete a deal, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. Watson thus will remain in Houston for the rest of the campaign, likely staying out of practice and logging regular healthy scratches on game day while his legal situation is in limbo.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Rams.

As expected, Watson will remain inactive in Week 8, and with Tyrod Taylor (hamstring) not yet ready to play, Davis Mills will once again will serve as the Texans' starting QB versus Los Angeles on Sunday. Meanwhile, there figures to be plenty of trade speculation surrounding Watson as the NFL's Nov. 2 deadline to make deals approaches, but at this stage no move is imminent.

Watson (not injury-related) didn't practice Wednesday, Adam Caplan of SiriusXM NFL Radio reports.

Watson's status with the Texans remains unchanged for now, though with the NFL trade deadline approaching this Tuesday, it's possible that the QB could be dealt in the coming days. Either way, Houston won't make Watson active for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Watson (not injury-related) is listed as out for Sunday's game against the Cardinals.

As is expected to be the case all season while he remains a member of the Houston roster, Watson won't practice or play in games. Fantasy players in deeper leagues that have stashed Watson amid his string of continued absences could eventually be rewarded for their patience, however, as trade discussions involving the quarterback have reportedly picked up over the past week. John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reported Wednesday that the Dolphins have "intensified their efforts" to acquire Watson, while Jeff Howe and Aaron Reiss of The Athletic reported the same day that the Texans have also held recent trade talks with the Eagles and the Panthers. The Nov. 2 trade deadline thus looms as an important date with regard to Watson's outlook.

The Texans and Dolphins have intensified trade talks surrounding Watson, and a deal between the two sides could be consummated as soon as this week, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Watson has been linked to the Dolphins for months, but Miami's interest in the three-time Pro Bowl quarterback has reportedly picked up after the team took its fifth straight loss last weekend in London to the previously winless Jaguars. According to McClain, Houston general manager Nick Caserio has been asking for three first-round and two second-round draft picks in return for Watson, who has a no-trade clause and would need to approve any deal. Due to Watson's desire to be traded in addition to the ongoing investigations he faces from both the league and law enforcement after 22 civil lawsuits were filed against him over the past several months, Houston has kept the 26-year-old inactive all season.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Colts.

With Tyrod Taylor (hamstring) still on IR, Davis Mills will once again serve as the Texans' starting QB versus Indianapolis, while Jeff Driskel is slated to be elevated from the team's practice squad to handle Week 6 backup duties.

Watson (not injury-related) didn't practice Wednesday.

Heading into Week 6 action, Watson is once again expected to be a non-participant in practice and a healthy inactive on game day Sunday against the Colts. With Tyrod Taylor (hamstring) still on injured reserve, Davis Mills is line for another start at QB for the Texans this weekend.

The Texans ruled out Watson (coach's decision) for Sunday's game against the Patriots, Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.

Watson hasn't practiced since the start of the regular season and is expected to remain inactive throughout the campaign, so long as he remains a member of the Houston roster. The Texans are expected to call up Jeff Driskel from their practice squad to serve as the backup behind starting quarterback Davis Mills this weekend.

Watson (non injury-related) didn't practice Wednesday.

Watson figures to be a non-participant and healthy scratch for the fifth straight week. Davis Mills will start at quarterback for the Texans this Sunday against the Patriots.

Watson (not injury-related) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Bills.

Watson, who has been inactive for Houston's first three games, is thus destined for another healthy scratch in Week 4. With Tyrod Taylor (hamstring) still on injured reserve, Davis Mills will serve as the team's starting quarterback versus Buffalo, while Jeff Driskel is once again in line for a promotion from the practice squad to the Texans' active roster to handle backup duties.

Watson (not injury-related) didn't practice Wednesday.

Look for Watson to continue to be listed as DNP/Not Injury Related through the week before eventually being ruled out by the Texans for Sunday's game against the Bills. With Tyrod Taylor (hamstring) on injured reserve, Davis Mills is once again in line to start at QB for the team this weekend.

Watson (not injury-related) has been officially ruled out for Thursday night's game against the Panthers.

Watson, who was inactive for Houston's first two games, is thus destined for another healthy scratch Thursday. With Tyrod Taylor (hamstring) on IR, Davis Mills will handle the team's starting QB duties in Week 3, while Jeff Driskel is in line to be promoted to the the active roster from the Texans' practice squad.

Coach David Culley indicated Monday that Watson will not be active for Thursday night's game against the Panthers,Deepi Sidhu of the Texans' official site reports.

Based on the way the Texans have handled things over the first two weeks of the season, look for Watson to continue to be listed as DNP/Not Injury Related at practice before being ruled out on the team's final injury report heading into Thursday's contest. With Watson not in consideration for Week 3 activation, rookie Davis Mills would be in line to start at QB for Houston versus Carolina if Tyrod Taylor is unavailable due to the hamstring injury he suffered Sunday.

Houston head coach David Culley was vague when asked about Watson's status heading into Week 3, a Thursday night matchup against the Panthers, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.

The major development in Sunday's loss to the Browns was the hamstring injury suffered by starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor, who was replaced by rookie Davis Mills to start the third quarter. On a short week or preparation, Taylor's availability for Thursday is unknown until the Texans can evaluate him over the next few days. Presuming Taylor is a no-go Thursday and Mills starts, the question becomes will Watson be active as the backup quarterback? "We'll have to wait and see what happens," Culley said. Watson has been inactive for the first two games of the season. The Texans also have Jeff Driskel, who spent training camp and preseason with Houston, on the practice squad.

Watson (not injury-related) will not play Sunday against the Browns.

Watson, who was inactive in Week 1, is thus headed for another healthy scratch this weekend. Tyrod Taylor will continue to start at QB for the Texans, while Watson remains on the team's roster, but continues to be listed as DNP (not injury-related) at practice.

Watson was held out of Wednesday's practice for non-injury reasons.

It's the same deal as last week, with Watson headed for a healthy scratch Sunday at Cleveland. The Texans and the NFL seem content to keep him on the roster but away from the field for the time being.

The Texans have ruled out Watson (non-injury) for Sunday's game against the Jaguars.

The decision was foretold after GM Nick Caserio relayed Wednesday that he didn't "expect him (Watson) to play" Week 1. Watson had a turbulent offseason that he kicked off with a trade request, and later 22 civil lawsuits against him came to the fore in March and April. With Tyrod Taylor named the Texans' starting quarterback, it remains to be seen when or if Watson will suit up at any point this season, whether it's in Houston or elsewhere following a trade.

Watson was held out of Wednesday's practice for non-injury reasons, Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.

As expected, with Watson likely to be a healthy scratch unless/until he's suspended or traded. Meanwhile, the Texans will start Tyrod Taylor at quarterback this Sunday against the Jaguars.

Texans general manager Nick Caserio said during a radio appearance Wednesday that he expects Watson to be inactive for Sunday's season opener versus the Jaguars, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports. "I wouldn't expect him to play," Caserio said of Watson. "I wouldn't anticipate him playing this Sunday and we'll recalibrate as we go."

Watson's expected inactive status to begin the season comes as little surprise after the Texans officially named Tyrod Taylor their starting quarterback Monday, while Mills appears as the No. 2 option on the team's unofficial depth chart. Though Caserio suggested the Texans will be taking a week-to-week approach with Watson's status, he'll most likely remain a healthy scratch when both Taylor and Mills are available. Houston is expected to keep Watson on its 53-man roster throughout the season while the 25-year-old currently faces 22 active civil lawsuits. Watson has also made it known that he would like to be traded, but it's unclear how seriously the organization is entertaining offers from other teams at this point.

Tyrod Taylor has officially been named the Texans' starting quarterback in advance of Sunday's season opener against the Jaguars, ESPN's Sarah Barshop reports. Though he remains on the team's 53-man roster, Watson is expected to be a healthy scratch on game days.

With Watson -- who currently faces 22 active civil lawsuits -- not expected to play for Houston this season, rookie Davis Mills is in line to be Taylor's backup Sunday, while Jeff Driskel, is on the team's practice squad. Barshop previously noted that the Texans are prepared to keep Watson on their roster for the rest of the 2021 campaign; however, it's possible that the QB's standing trade request could result in him being dealt to another team at some point down the road.

Watson is listed on the Texans' initial 53-man roster in advance of Week 1, ESPN's Sarah Barshop reports.

That said, the QB -- who currently faces 22 active civil lawsuits -- isn't expected to play for the team this season and will likely be a healthy scratch on game-days as long as he remains on Houston's active roster. Barshop notes that Texans are prepared to keep Watson on their roster for the rest of the 2021 campaign, however it's possible that the signal-caller's standing trade request could result in him be dealt to another team down the road. Also on the team's roster following Tuesday's league-wide cut-downs are fellow quarterbacks Tyrod Taylor and rookie Davis Mills.

The Texans are prepared to have Watson on their 53-man roster and inactive every week, independent NFL journalist Aaron Wilson reports.

Watson has a standing trade request, and with no deal imminent as he faces 22 civil lawsuits for allegations of sexual assault, the Texans will keep him on the roster but away from the field. The team tried to talk him into stick around earlier in the offseason, but at this point they may be resigned to trading him -- be it next week or next offseason.

The Dolphins have emerged as frontrunners in trade discussions to acquire Watson from the Texans, according to Charles Robinson of Yahoo.

Robinson notes that the Panthers, Broncos and Eagles have also expressed interest, with some teams seeking protection for their draft picks in the event Watson faces criminal prosecution and/or an NFL suspension as a result of ongoing investigations into sexual assault allegations from multiple women.

The Texans may need to keep Watson on their 53-man roster even if they don't expect him to play in games, Aaron Reiss of The Athletic reports.

NFL investigators have yet to meet with Watson because they're waiting for criminal investigations to be completed. The league reportedly wants to meet with the quarterback before considering the commissioner's exempt list, which was used in the past to keep players like Mike Vick (2009), Adrian Peterson (2014) and Kareem Hunt (2018) off the field before they were officially suspended. The Texans may thus end up keeping Watson on the roster as a healthy scratch this year, likely waiting for their opportunity to trade him to another team for a haul of draft picks. Injured reserve would be an easy solution to keep Watson on the team but off of the 53-man roster, but he seems to be perfectly healthy at the moment, in part because he's done so little on the practice field this summer, mostly working with third- and fourth-stringers.

Watson worked out on a field away from the practice area Tuesday, Brooks Kubena of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Watson is not injured but has not been taking part in team drills. He attends meetings and works out on the side or on another field by himself. Watson did not travel with Houston for its first two preseason games, and the team is preparing to move forward without him.

Watson could spend the 2021 season on "the Texans' 53-man roster as a healthy scratch each week," Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.

As Barshop mentioned, the NFL hasn't put any restrictions on Watson during training camp as the investigation proceeds with regard to his legal situation. And the league also may not place Watson on the commissioner's exempt list before the regular season. With his activity during camp practices few and far between to date and no snaps through two preseason games -- mostly due to ankle and calf injuries -- he's fallen behind in the QB pecking order in Houston, where he resides fourth on the depth chart behind expected starter Tyrod Taylor, Jeff Driskel and 2021 third-round pick Davis Mills. Clearly, the Texans aren't forced to make a decision on Watson for a few weeks, but weekly DNPs this fall could be in the cards.

Watson displayed mid-season form during Thursday night's scrimmage, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Aside from a couple of missed throws, Watson was sharp, hitting Kenny Stills for an 18-yard touchdown pass on what may have been his best throw of the scrimmage. He also connected on a deep ball with Will fuller and later led a long touchdown drive that ended with his own rushing touchdown. That's the entire package Watson brings to a fantasy roster: pinpoint throws, a threat to throw deep and running ability.

Watson has shown a good handle on the changes to the Texans' offense, Sarah Barshop of ESPN.com reports.

Houston made several personnel changes on offense, and it's on Watson to incorporate the new assets. With DeAndre Hopkins no longer around and Carlos Hyde being replaced as the top running back, Watson is the key to Houston qualifying for the postseason and making a deep run. Houston head coach Bill O'Brien said the quarterback has "a really good grasp of our offense" and is "playing at a really high level." Watson, who is in his fourth year with Houston, feels that experience has helped incorporate changes to the offense, including new weapons like Brandin Cooks, Randall Cobb and David Johnson.

The Texans exercised Watson's fifth-year team option for 2021 on Monday, Field Yates of ESPN reports.

Houston's decision to pick up the option was a foregone conclusion, given that Watson has already established himself as one of the league's top signal-callers through his first three seasons. The fifth-year option may just serve as a placeholder until the Texans are able to come to terms with Watson on a long-term deal that will likely make him one of the highest-paid players in NFL history.

The Texans acquired another wide receiver (Brandin Cooks) for Watson on Thursday, John McClain of the Houston Chronicle reports.

After shipping out DeAndre Hopkins last month, Houston's receiving corps was a bit short-handed, even with the addition of Randall Cobb soon after. Following the trade for Cooks, Watson now has a more well-rounded group, with the oft-injured Will Fuller (sports hernia) and Kenny Stills still on board. Cooks has four 1,000-yard seasons under his belt but also has concerns with concussions, as he suffered the fifth of his career in 2019. Still, the Texans have done OK in their effort to restock the weapons at Watson's disposal.

The trade of DeAndre Hopkins leaves Watson with Will Fuller and Kenny Stills as the top two wide receiver targets, Bill Barnwell of ESPN.com reports.

Hopkins had become a crutch for the offense and rarely missed games. He topped the team in terms of catch and target share (29.3 and 28.8 percent, respectively). Watson and Hopkins were an elite combination, one that will be hard to replace. In steps the oft-injured Fuller and Stills, both considered deep threats that are not the franchise wideout that Hopkins has become. The Texans could add a wide receiver in what is considered a strong draft class for the position, but Watson has lost a security blanket and will need to adjust.

Watson completed 31 of 52 passes for 388 yards and two touchdowns, while running for 37 yards and an additional TD on six carries during Sunday's 51-31 divisional round loss to the Chiefs.

The third-year signal-caller delivered once again from an individual perspective during Houston's 2019 finale, wrapping up the postseason with 727 scrimmage yards and five total TDs. There's no denying Watson got off to an electrifying start, going 4-for-4 with a TD on Houston's opening drive while leading the Texans to 21 first-quarter points -- the most ever in 298 regular-season and playoff games in franchise history. The former Heisman winner closes out 2019 with a 28:12 TD:INT and more than 260 passing yards per game, as well as 505 rushing yards and an additional nine scores on the ground. In 2020 Watson will enter the fourth frame of his rookie deal at an economical cap hit of $4.4 million, but he remains poised for a massive pay raise within the next two years.

Though Watson (back) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Titans, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle indicates that backup QB A.J. McCarron is "expected to start and/or play extensively."

Though the Texans still have a chance to move from the No. 4 AFC playoff seed to No. 3 with a win, plus a Kansas City loss, it looks like the team is inclined to proceed cautiously with both Watson and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (illness), with their postseason health in mind. Considering that, Watson is too risky to roll with in Week 17 fantasy lineups.

Watson (back), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Titans, is expected to serve as the backup to AJ McCarron in the contest, Dianna Russini of ESPN reports.

Watson's back injury limited him in practice throughout the week, but he likely would be on track to start if the Texans had something to play for in Week 17. While Houston could move up from the AFC's No. 4 seed to the No. 3 position with a Kansas City loss, the Texans may already be locked into the fourth spot by the time the 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff arrives, as the heavily favored Chiefs take on the Chargers at 1 p.m. ET. With that in mind, the Texans apparently aren't inclined to take any chances with Watson or DeAndre Hopkins (illness) in advance of the playoffs, making both the quarterback and wide receiver worth avoiding in season-long and DFS lineups.

Watson (back) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Titans after practicing in a limited fashion this week, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

If Sunday's contest carried major playoff implications, there's not much doubt that Watson would suit up this weekend. With that in mind, it's worth noting that if the Chiefs -- whose Week 17 tilt kicks off at 1:00 ET -- beat the Chargers, the outcome of Houston's game (which begins at 4:25 ET) won't affect the team's playoff seeding. In that context, it's possible that key players like Watson may be rested or limited versus Tennessee, even if they are not among the team's inactives.

Watson (back) was limited at practice Thursday.

We'll have to see if the Texans list their franchise QB as questionable or minus an injury designation for this weekend's game against the Titans. Note that Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle relays that if the Chiefs, who start their Week 17 game at 1:00 ET on Sunday, beat the Chargers, the result of the Texans' regular-season finale (which kicks off at 4:25 ET) wouldn't affect the team's playoff seeding. As a result, there's a possibility that the Texans could elect to rest or limit some of their key players if they have nothing concrete to play for.

Watson (back) was listed as limited on Wednesday's practice estimate.

We'll revisit Watson's status once the Texans take the practice field Thursday, but note that Houston has secured a playoff spot and can't earn a first-round bye, so it's possible that the team plays it safe with the QB Sunday against the Titans if he heads into the weekend less than 100 percent.

Watson suffered what appeared to be ankle injury during Saturday's 23-20 win over Tampa Bay in Week 16, Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle reports.

Watson's shaky outing may have been partially due to the ankle injury, which he downplayed following the game. The injury did not force him to leave the game, but he was examined in the blue tent while backup A.J. McCarron warmed up. "No, I'm just fine," Watson said when asked about his health. "I was able to finish the game and deal with what I had to deal with. I'm all good. I'm definitely going to enjoy it." Watson had a season-low 62.5 passer rating. The Texans, who clinched the AFC South with Saturday's win, have a shot to move up to third seed pending how the Chiefs finish up the season. As such, they may try to get Watson healthy enough to play Week 17 against Tennessee.