# Deshaun Watson placed in concussion protocol in potential Shedeur Sanders opportunity

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/deshaun-watson-placed-in-concussion-protocol-in-potential-shedeur-sanders-opportunity/
- Published: 2026-11-04T14:58:51+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-05T09:08:02+00:00
- Original publisher: New York Post (publisher lean: Right)
- Original article: https://nypost.com/2026/11/04/sports/deshaun-watson-placed-in-concussion-protocol-shedeur-sanders-could-start/
- Topics: World

## Key points

- Watson is in concussion protocol after reporting symptoms.
- Sanders could start for Cleveland against New Orleans.
- Watson’s potential off-season departure carries an $86 million cap hit.

## Summary

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has entered concussion protocol after reporting symptoms following a helmet-to-helmet hit in Sunday’s 27-6 defeat by Pittsburgh. His absence could give rookie Shedeur Sanders a chance to start against the New Orleans Saints, with Cleveland tied for the AFC’s final wild-card place.

Watson was checked on the sideline and again Monday, then reported symptoms on Monday night to the team’s medical staff on Tuesday morning. This season he has completed 163 of 249 passes for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions; Sanders completed both of his attempts for two yards against Pittsburgh. Cleveland drafted Sanders in the fifth round in 2026 and says it has no plans to trade him, while moving on from Watson this off-season could leave the team with an $86 million cap hit.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.