Shedeur Sanders could get unexpected Browns opportunity after Deshaun Watson injury image
Patrick Gorski/Imagn Images via Reuters Connect
The Cleveland Browns are preparing for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints with an unexpected question at quarterback. Deshaun Watson entered the NFL's concussion protocol after reporting symptoms Tuesday, according to reporting Wednesday. The development follows a helmet-to-helmet hit during Cleveland's 27-6 loss to Pittsburgh.
Watson's status creates the possibility that Shedeur Sanders could start against New Orleans, although the Browns have not established that outcome as certain.
The situation places renewed attention on a young quarterback who has already experienced a complicated beginning to his NFL career.
Sanders could receive another chance
Sanders entered Sunday's game against Pittsburgh after Watson was injured and completed both of his passes for two yards.
It could be Shedeur Sanders time on Sunday for the Browns. Here are his 2025 stats: 120/212 56% completion percentage 1,400 yards 7 TDs 10 INTs 23 sacks 68.1 passer rating 18.9 QBR 3-4 record https://t.co/y85SKI4gdy
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) November 4, 2026
The limited appearance did not provide much opportunity to evaluate his development, but an entire week preparing as a potential starter would represent a different situation.
Cleveland selected Sanders in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL draft. He previously received starting opportunities when Dillon Gabriel was injured, demonstrating flashes of potential while also struggling with turnovers.
The Browns have continued developing Sanders behind Watson, and coach Todd Monken has indicated that the young quarterback received significant practice work during training camp.
That preparation could become particularly important this week.
Watson's situation creates larger questions
Watson has completed 163 of 249 passes for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions this season.
Those numbers helped Cleveland reach 5-3, keeping the Browns in the AFC playoff conversation despite Sunday's disappointing defeat.
The concussion protocol does not operate according to a fixed return timetable. Watson must complete the required steps before being cleared to play.
That means Cleveland cannot simply assume its veteran quarterback will be available Sunday.
The Browns must prepare Sanders while continuing to monitor Watson's recovery.
MORE: Stephen A. Smith wants Cowboys to hire Rex Ryan after latest collapse
A potentially important moment for Cleveland
The Browns have playoff ambitions, and a quarterback change at this point in the season carries significant consequences.
Sanders would be stepping into an offense that needs more consistent production after scoring only six points against Pittsburgh.
He would also have an opportunity to demonstrate how much he has improved since his earlier NFL appearances.
Cleveland's next injury updates will determine whether that opportunity becomes a reality.
For now, Sanders is back in the spotlight because of an injury situation that could change the Browns' immediate plans.
More NFL news: