Browns Activate 21-Day Practice Window for Deshaun Watson
Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski provided an important update regarding quarterback Deshaun Watson on Wednesday. The team announced that Watson’s 21-day practice window has officially opened. This marks his first opportunity to participate in on-field activities since he suffered a torn Achilles during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 7 of the previous season.
Deshaun Watson’s Recovery Journey
Watson has undergone two surgeries to address his injury, one on October 25, 2024, and a second on January 9, 2025. Stefanski expressed optimism about Watson’s rehabilitation progress. “It’s outstanding for Deshaun. He’s been working so hard rehabbing,” he stated in a press conference. “My focus is obviously getting back to playing football, practicing football…big next step for him.”
Practice Plan and Future Outlook
During this practice window, Watson will initially participate in individual drills. There are discussions about him potentially joining scout team reps later in the period. However, Stefanski clarified that discussions about Watson playing this season are not the current focus for himself or Watson. The team is concentrated on Watson’s gradual return to football activities.
Watson’s Performance with the Browns
- Deshaun Watson has played 19 games for the Browns since joining the team in 2022.
- Cleveland has a record of 9 wins and 10 losses in those games.
- Watson’s performance in 2024 was underwhelming, completing 63.4% of his passes for 1,148 yards.
- He recorded five touchdowns against three interceptions during that season.
- The Browns struggled with a 1-6 record in matches where Watson was the starting quarterback.
Looking Ahead
This weekend, Cleveland plans to start Shedeur Sanders against the Tennessee Titans. Stefanski mentioned that decisions about the starting quarterback will be made on a week-to-week basis. The Browns must activate Watson to the 53-man roster within the 21 days of his practice window, or he will be sidelined for the entire season.
