The Cleveland Browns are set to face the New Orleans Saints in a crucial matchup, but they will be without their starting quarterback, Deshaun Watson. Following a week in concussion protocol and limited practice time, Watson has been declared inactive for the game. This significant development means Shedeur Sanders will step in as the starting quarterback, marking his first start of the current season. Dillon Gabriel is slated to be the primary backup, with rookie Taylen Green taking on the role of the emergency third-string quarterback. This shift in the lineup presents a new challenge for the Browns as they aim for a bounce-back victory against the Saints, with Sanders having previously made two appearances this season in Watson’s stead against the Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Watson's absence stems from a concussion he sustained during a previous game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He entered the concussion protocol on November 3rd, having reported symptoms two days after the Steelers game. The injury occurred early in that contest when Watson took a helmet-to-helmet hit from safety Jaquan Brisker on the third play. Despite the hit, Watson briefly exited for four plays before returning to complete the game, finishing with 27 of 39 passes for 324 yards and one fumble. His ability to perform under pressure has been a highlight this season, leading the NFL in passer rating (130.3), passing yards (448), completion percentage (75.5), and completions (37) in the final two minutes of either half. Throughout the season, Watson has completed 163 of 249 passes for 1,806 yards, averaging 258 yards per game, with seven touchdowns and three interceptions, earning a 91.2 rating.
Shedeur Sanders, who will now lead the offense, has had limited but impactful experience this season. His previous two appearances came in Week 3 against the Carolina Panthers and in Week 8 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he filled in for Watson. His performance in these relief roles likely played a factor in the coaching staff's decision to name him the starter for this pivotal game. The team will rely on Sanders to maintain offensive rhythm and capitalize on scoring opportunities against a tough Saints defense.
Beyond Watson, the Browns' inactive list for the game against the New Orleans Saints includes several other players. Rookie quarterback Taylen Green will serve as the emergency third quarterback, indicating the team's depth strategy. Defensive tackle Maliek Collins is also out due to an elbow injury. Additionally, cornerback Noah Igbinoghene, linebacker Justin Jefferson, and center Parker Brailsford have been listed as inactive, which comes as no surprise as they have frequently been on the inactive list this season. This highlights the team's current roster dynamics and the players available to step up in key positions.
As the Browns prepare for their matchup against the Saints, the focus will undoubtedly be on Shedeur Sanders and his ability to command the offense in Watson's absence. The team will need a cohesive effort from all its players to overcome the challenges posed by these significant roster changes and secure a vital victory.