The Cleveland Browns ruled out quarterback Deshaun Watson for the remainder of the season on Wednesday morning after an MRI revealed he needs to undergo surgery on his right (throwing) shoulder.
Watson underwent testing after he was injured during Cleveland's 33-31 victory over the Baltimore Ravens this past Sunday. He was diagnosed with a left high ankle sprain in addition to a displaced fracture in his shoulder.
"Despite performing at a high level and finishing the game, after consultation with Browns' Head Physician, James Voos, MD, and industry-leading shoulder specialist, Neal ElAttrache, MD, it has been determined that this injury will require immediate surgical repair to avoid further structural damage," the Browns said in a statement Wednesday. "Deshaun will be placed on season-ending injured reserve and a full recovery is expected for the start of the 2024 season."
The news comes one day after the Browns announced running back Nick Chubb underwent a second surgery in September to repair torn ligaments in his right knee. His timeline is less certain. The Browns framing on Tuesday was "estimated recovery time from these surgeries indicates that Nick would be able to return to play during the 2024 season."
Per NFL Network, Watson visited multiple doctors and wanted to play through the injury. He was advised, however, that the shoulder could "fall apart" if he were to be hit in the same spot.
Watson is expected to make a full recovery for the start of the 2024 season, the team announced.
P.J. Walker likely will be under center when the Browns (6-3) host the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3) in another big AFC North match this Sunday. Both teams have won two straight and are chasing the Ravens (7-3).
Watson completed 20 of 34 passes with one interception and rushed eight times for 37 yards against Baltimore. Trailing 31-17 in the fourth quarter, his 10-yard touchdown pass to Elijah Moore ignited a comeback capped by a 40-yard walk-off field goal from Dustin Hopkins.
Watson, 28, has completed 61.4 percent of his passes for 1,115 yards with seven touchdowns and four interceptions in six games this season.
—Field Level Media