Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson went down with an injury during the first quarter against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday. Here’s the latest on what we know.
Latest Deshaun Watson Injury Update
After nearly throwing his second interception of the day (the interception was overturned upon review), Watson took a big hit as Dayo Odeyingbo shoved him to the ground, and the back of his head hit the turf. He was able to jog off the field and was holding his right arm.
#Browns QB Deshaun Watson was shaken up on this play after taking a hit and bouncing off the turf.
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) October 22, 2023
Watson went to the medical tent, and P.J. Walker began warming up to take over in his place. In an Oct. 15 start against the 49ers, Walker completed 52.9% of his passing attempts for 192 yards and two interceptions en route to an upset win over San Francisco.
Watson has been dealing with a shoulder injury that has had him sidelined since Week 4. Before getting hurt in today’s game, he was 1 of 5 for five yards and an interception.
MORE: Cleveland Browns Depth Chart 2023
As Walker took over the offense on the next Browns drive, Watson was seen on the sideline with his helmet on. After the first quarter ended, he headed back to the medical tent.
Browns radio later reported that Watson cleared his concussion test. He did not return to the game as Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski told reporters after the game that he “wanted to protect our franchise quarterback.”
Watson is expected to start next week’s game in Seattle.
So far this season, Watson has put up 687 passing yards and four touchdowns with two interceptions.
Fantasy Implications of Watson’s Injury
The Browns went with Walker last week, and it wasn’t pretty. The fourth-year QB completed just 18 of 34 passes for 192 yards and two interceptions against the 49ers, but he did what fantasy managers needed — target Amari Cooper.
The Cleveland star receiver earned a 24.2% target share and finished with 108 yards. He’s the only member of this passing game worthy of a roster spot with Watson out.
In that game, Cleveland ran the ball 34 times, which keeps Jerome Ford plenty viable as an RB2, regardless of who is under center. Meanwhile, Kareem Hunt is a nice stash that isn’t on starting radars just yet.
–Fantasy Analysis provided by PFN’s Kyle Soppe