On Tuesday, the Cleveland Browns announced that quarterback Deshaun Watson underwent successful surgery on his injured throwing shoulder.
According to a team release, the surgery repaired a displaced fracture to the glenoid in his right shoulder. Watson is already out for the rest of the season. The team stated that the rehabilitation process will begin on Friday and that a full recovery is expected before the start of the 2024 season.
It’s a difficult situation for the Browns, but it’s good news for the team’s $230 million quarterback, who should be ready to go next season. Watson’s contract with the Browns is fully guaranteed, so he’ll be the starter once he’s healthy.
Watson had a difficult season with the Browns due to a string of injuries. He missed all but one quarter of a four-game span due to a rotator cuff strain. The rotator cuff strain and his current shoulder injury, according to the team, were unrelated.
Watson played through a shoulder injury and a sprained ankle against the Baltimore Ravens on November 12, going 14-of-14 in the second half as Cleveland won 33-31.
This season, the Browns went 5-1 with Watson at quarterback. In those games, he completed 61.4% of his passes for 1,115 yards, seven touchdowns, and four interceptions.
Browns Rolling With Rookie QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson
Watson was acquired in a blockbuster trade by the Browns during the 2022 offseason. Cleveland gave up three first-round picks, as well as a third and fourth-round selection. Watson will have played in 12 games for the Browns over the course of two seasons. He was suspended for 11 games for the majority of last season.
Watson hoped to get back on track this season and showed glimpses of his Pro Bowl form. Injuries, however, derailed any momentum that had been built.
“I’m still in disbelief,” Watson said after being ruled out for the year on November 15. “I’m just trying to process everything.” I felt like we were rounding the corner to make a serious run, and I still believe we will with the guys in this locker room. I just wanted to be a physical part of it.”
With Watson out, the Browns handed the starting job to rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson. On November 19, he helped lead the Browns to a 13-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, engineering a game-winning drive late in the game. Thompson-Robinson finished the game with 165 yards and one interception, but he came through when it counted.
“I think every young player, every young person, every – coaches, you name it — you learn from every opportunity,” said Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski of Thompson-Robinson. “Whether in-game or in practice, these are all reps for us to keep improving.” That’s what I believe this is for him. That’s the first one out of the way, and then it’s on to the next.”
Browns Bring in Joe Flacco as Veteran Insurance
Despite signing veteran Joe Flacco on Monday, Thompson-Robinson will start for the Browns against the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
The former Super Bowl MVP brings a lengthy resume and playoff experience to the table, but Thompson-Robinson will remain at quarterback for the time being.
“Dorian will start, and Joe’s role will be to support this team,” Stefanski explained. “We were able to bring in a guy with a lot of experience.” He’ll be ideal for that space. He’ll be an asset to this team.”
Flacco was initially signed to the practice squad but is expected to join Thompson-Robinson and PJ Walker on the active roster soon. If the rookie struggles, there’s a chance the Browns could turn to Flacco once he gets up to speed.
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