Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has entered the NFL's concussion protocol, the team announced Tuesday. Watson passed a concussion evaluation after a helmet-to-helmet hit during Sunday's 27-6 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers but reported concussion-like symptoms Monday night.
The hit from Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker was flagged. Watson briefly left the game and was replaced by second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders before returning. Watson finished with 324 passing yards, eight sacks, and zero touchdowns.
If Watson cannot play in Week 9 against the New Orleans Saints, Sanders, 24, would likely start. Sanders has appeared in two games this season for five snaps, completing all three passes for 2 yards. Last season, he started seven of eight appearances, throwing seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions with a 56.6% completion rate. He ranked last among 36 quarterbacks with at least 200 attempts in completion percentage, touchdown-to-interception ratio, and passer rating.
The Browns have upgraded their offensive line and wide receiver corps, with rookies Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion impressing. The Saints' defense ranks 28th in yards per play and yards per game, potentially offering a favorable matchup for a new starter.
