Cleveland Browns place quarterback Deshaun Watson in concussion protocol

The Cleveland Browns placed starting quarterback Deshaun Watson in the concussion protocol on Wednesday morning, UPI and the New York Post reported. Watson sustained a helmet to helmet hit during the first quarter of the Browns 27 to 6 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. The hit occurred in Pittsburgh, UPI noted. [1][2]

Watson was examined on the sidelines following the hit and was checked again on Monday morning, according to a team statement cited by the New York Post. He returned to play for the Browns second drive on Sunday, UPI reported. The New York Post reported that Watson informed the medical staff on Tuesday morning that he began experiencing concussion symptoms on Monday night, which led to his immediate placement in the protocol. [1][2]

Backup quarterback Shedeur Sanders entered the game against the Steelers but did not throw a pass, the New York Post reported. The outlet noted that Sanders may be in line for a starting opportunity. The New York Post added that Watson had been playing well enough in his return from a serious Achilles injury to maintain the starting job prior to entering the protocol. [1][2]

Watson plays professionally for the Cleveland Browns after being selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL draft by the Houston Texans, and he previously led the Clemson Tigers to a national championship in 2016. [8]