Browns’ Deshaun Watson Expected to Start Sunday in Indianapolis
Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was a full participant in Friday’s practice, giving the team hope that he will be able to start Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts. Watson has been listed as questionable due to an injured right shoulder, but the team is optimistic about his progress.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski stated that the team will not officially name a starter for Sunday until they are certain that Watson does not experience any additional swelling or soreness in his shoulder. However, with Watson’s participation in practice and progress, it seems likely that he will get the start.
After two weeks of limited throwing and missing Wednesday’s practice, Watson returned to throwing on Thursday and Friday. Reports from practice indicate that he appeared to be operating with more purpose and was wearing a sleeve and brace on his injured shoulder.
There is still some uncertainty surrounding Watson’s readiness for the game. Can he make all the necessary throws? Does he have the required timing with his receivers? These questions will only be answered when Watson takes the field on Sunday.
The Browns are eager to have Watson back in the lineup as the offense needs reps and improvements. The outlook for Watson has changed over the past few days, and the team hopes that this will translate into a positive change for the offense.
In terms of fantasy football, Watson’s risk factors into his ranking as a mid-QB2. He was not considered a QB1 even before the injury, and his status at less than 100% does not significantly impact the rankings of other players on the team.
Coach Stefanski commented on Watson’s performance in practice, stating, “He looked good today.” However, the coach remained cautious in his assessment, likely due to the previous miscommunication regarding Watson’s availability in previous games.
Watson was initially “medically cleared” before the Browns’ Week 4 game against the Baltimore Ravens but was ruled out on the morning of the game. He also missed last week’s win over the San Francisco 49ers following the team’s bye week.
As Sunday’s game approaches, all eyes will be on Deshaun Watson and whether he will be able to lead the Browns on the field. The team and fans alike are hoping for a positive outcome and a successful return for their star quarterback.