Watson's 24-Hour Symptom Report Triggers Concussion Protocol

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson entered the league's concussion protocol on Tuesday morning. The team announced the status after Watson reported new symptoms to medical staff. This development places 24-year-old Shedeur Sanders in line to start Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints.

Watson sustained a helmet-to-helmet collision from Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker during Sunday's 27-6 loss in Pittsburgh. A flag was thrown on the play, and a spotter was sent to the sideline to evaluate Watson. Sanders entered the game briefly before Watson returned to the field. Watson finished the contest with 324 passing yards, though he was sacked eight times and did not throw a touchdown.

The Browns evaluated Watson for a concussion immediately after the game and again on Monday. Despite passing the initial on-field check, Watson told team doctors he began experiencing concussion-like symptoms on Monday night. The team placed him in the protocol upon receiving this report on Tuesday.

Cleveland holds a 5-3 record entering Week 9. Sanders has seen limited action this season, appearing in two games for a total of five snaps. He completed all three of his pass attempts for a total of two yards. If Watson cannot play, Sanders would start his first game this year.

The 24-year-old second-year pro spent last season in a quarterback rotation. He appeared in eight games with seven starts. He threw seven touchdown passes and 10 interceptions while completing 56.6% of his passes. Among 36 quarterbacks with at least 200 attempts, Sanders ranked last in completion percentage, touchdown-to-interception rate, and passer rating.

Sanders did record a three-touchdown performance against the Titans last year. He lost the starting job to Watson during the offseason. The current offense features an upgraded line and receiving corps, including rookies Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion. The Saints' defense ranks 28th in the league in both yards per play and yards per game.