Browns QB Deshaun Watson ‘can’t put a timeline’ on return

BEREA, Ohio — Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson expressed uncertainty regarding his return from a rotator cuff strain in his throwing shoulder. Watson stated that he cannot provide a specific timeline for his recovery.

Watson, who sat out of practice on Wednesday, has missed the Browns’ last two games and has not participated in full practice sessions since September 22. He mentioned that it remains unclear whether he will be able to play against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

“We need to continue taking it day-by-day,” stated Watson. He further revealed that an MRI scan unveiled a “microtear” in his rotator cuff muscle. “If I cannot perform certain actions that could hinder our team’s effectiveness in specific situations, I will not put the team at risk. That is why I have been unable to step onto the field,” added Watson.

Watson acknowledged the challenges he faces while throwing the ball, given the rotator cuff injury. He sustained the strain on September 24 during a game against the Tennessee Titans, which happened to be his best performance of the season.

According to Watson, doctors did not diagnose the injury until September 30, the day before the Browns’ loss to the Baltimore Ravens. He attempted to throw during warmups but was ultimately ruled inactive. Watson sought a second opinion, which confirmed the initial diagnosis.

Despite not being able to practice, Watson revealed that he has been throwing passes intermittently but also had to take breaks to prevent overexertion. “It’s a tricky situation,” he explained. “We’ve been adopting a baseball approach, consulting experts who deal with rotator cuff injuries more frequently. Our focus has been strengthening the muscle and its surrounding areas to regain comfort.”

Last Sunday, PJ Walker started in place of Watson and led the Browns to a game-winning field goal drive in the fourth quarter. If Watson is unable to play for the third consecutive game, Walker will start against the Colts.

Watson expressed his frustration, stating, “Not being on the field is definitely frustrating. I’ve seen people suggesting that I should play regardless. However, if I cannot control the ball and throw it properly, there is no benefit to me being out there.”