Deshaun Watson injury: Browns QB out for season with shoulder fracture, rookie to start vs. Steelers

Deshaun Watson's season is over, leaving the Cleveland Browns without a franchise quarterback, after sustaining a fracture in his throwing shoulder.

Deshaun Watson's season is over, leaving the Cleveland Browns without a franchise quarterback once again. Watson sustained a fracture in his throwing shoulder during Sunday's game, ruling him out for the rest of the season. The injury came during his best performance since joining the team following a controversial trade in 2022.

The Browns (6-3) must now move forward without Watson, with rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson set to start against the Pittsburgh Steelers (6-3). This will be Thompson-Robinson's second start, after a rough pro debut earlier in the season. Coach Kevin Stefanski expressed confidence in the rookie quarterback, giving him a full week of preparation as a starter.

P.J. Walker was another option for the Browns, but given his turnovers in previous games, Thompson-Robinson was chosen to lead the team in Watson's absence.

Watson, who was also dealing with a left ankle injury, played through the pain during the game and managed to lead the Browns to a last-second win against the Ravens. Despite his injuries, Watson's physical toughness was commended by Browns general manager Andrew Berry.

The fracture in Watson's shoulder is unrelated to a previous injury he sustained earlier in the season. The Browns are disappointed by the setback, especially considering Watson's resilience throughout the season. The team invested $230 million in the 28-year-old quarterback, with high hopes of ending their search for an elite QB.

Now, Watson will have to work his way back from a shoulder injury with just three seasons left on his deal. The Browns are determined to stay in the playoff race despite the setbacks, and they will be adding a third quarterback to the roster.

The Browns traded three first-round draft picks last year to Houston for Watson, who was later suspended for 11 games by the NFL after being accused of sexual assault and harassment. Watson has only made 12 of 26 possible starts since coming to Cleveland, making his absence a significant blow to the team.

The Browns have faced multiple injuries to key players this season, but they remain committed to their goal of reaching the playoffs. The loss of Watson is undoubtedly a setback, but the team is determined to overcome this challenge and continue their pursuit of success in the NFL.

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