Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and returned to practice, according to a report from USA TODAY Sports on Saturday.
The clearance allows Watson to participate fully in team activities ahead of the Browns' upcoming game. Watson had been sidelined after sustaining a concussion during Cleveland's previous contest.
The Browns' medical staff evaluated Watson through the league's mandated five-step return-to-play process, which includes symptom monitoring, cognitive testing, and gradual increase in physical activity before final clearance by an independent neurological consultant.
Watson, in his second full season with Cleveland after the blockbuster trade from Houston, has started all games this season prior to the injury. The Browns' offense will benefit from his return as they navigate a competitive AFC North division race.
