Report: Deshaun Watson Will Not Play For Browns Against 49ers This Weekend

After Deshaun Watson missed practice on back-to-back days, a report declares that the Browns QB will not play against 49ers

A report Thursday night appears to confirm the inevitable for the Cleveland Browns: Deshaun Watson will not play in the team's Week Six showdown with the San Francisco 49ers.

The news comes from CBS Sports Senior NFL Insider, Josina Anderson. 

I’m told the #Browns QB Deshaun Watson will not play Sunday vs the 5-0 #49ers, per source.

— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) October 12, 2023

The team has yet to confirm that report, but the outcome seemed more and more likely considering Watson has yet to practice with the team this week, and by the fact he's missed his usual media availability on back-to-back days.

One thing the team has made abundantly clear already, is that former XLFer, PJ Walker would get the start under center – in favor of rookie Dorian Thompson Robinson – if Watson is indeed out.

Walker has appeared in 15 games throughout his NFL career, including six most recently with the Carolina Panthers in 2022.

Browns offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt expressed confidence in Walker's ability to run the offense in Watson's absence, but even with a fully healthy Watson it was going to be an uphill battle against the juggernaut, 5-0, 49ers.

Stemming from a hit taken in during Cleveland's Sept. 24, 27-3 win over the Tennessee Titans, Watson is now expected to miss a second straight game with a "rotator cuff contusion."

Based on commentary from general manager Andrew Berry during the team's bye week, and more recently, head coach Kevin Stefanski, there is no structural damage in Watson's throwing shoulder. How much longer the injury will impact Watson's status remains unclear.

The Browns' Friday participation report should provide more clarity on, or even confirm Anderson's report that Watson can't play, Sunday.