Steelers Could Avoid Browns QB

PITTSBURGH -- The Pittsburgh Steelers could avoid playing Deshaun Watson a second time this season as the Cleveland Browns quarterback may end up on Injured Reserve due to a shoulder injury.

Watson missed Weeks 5 and 6 for the Browns due to the shoulder injury. He then returned in Week 7 against the Indianapolis Colts, but left in the first quarter after being sacked. He was evaluated for a concussion because of the hit, but was cleared. Still, he remained sidelined, which head coach Kevin Stefanski said was due to being cautious about the situation.

#Browns Kevin Stefanski on keeping Deshaun Watson out of the rest of the game: "I just felt like I wanted to protect him. I didn't want him to get hit."

Said it's Sunday so he can't speak too soon but he expects Deshaun, "if everything clears," to be "ready to roll."
— Camryn Justice (@camijustice) October 22, 2023

Now, there are questions about whether or not Watson will play anytime soon because of his shoulder. When asked if Watson could end up on IR, Stefanski said the team is taking it day-to-day.

#Browns coach Kevin Stefanski was asked if putting Deshaun Watson on IR is an option: I'm taking this day-to-day. Always gathering information. He's getting better.
— Scott Petrak ct (@ScottPetrak) October 23, 2023

If the Browns quarterback does end up on IR, he'll miss at least the next four weeks. His first eligible week to return - Week 12, the week after the Browns host the Steelers.

In their opening matchup, Watson completed 22 of 40 passes for 235 yards and a touchdown but also threw an interception. Pittsburgh defeated Cleveland 26-22 after a game-winning scoop and score by T.J. Watt.

If Watson is unable to go against the Steelers, it appears P.J. Walker will remain the team's starter. Walker has been spending his weeks on the practice squad with elevations coming on game day. That would need to change if Watson is going to miss extended time.

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