Deshaun Watson injury update: Kevin Stefanski confirms grim outlook for Browns QB after loss to Bengals

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is believed to have suffered a season-ending Achilles injury in Sunday’s loss to the Bengals, coach Kevin Stefanski told reporters.

The injury occurred near the end of the first half. It was no-contact as Watson’s right leg appeared to give out when he took off to scramble. He finished the game 15-of-17 passing for 128 yards.

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The Browns initially turned to second-year quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson to replace Watson. However, after he threw two interceptions, Jameis Winston came in to take over. Winston finished the game 5-of-11 passing for 67 yards and a touchdown.

The loss marked the fifth straight for the Browns, who fell to 1-6 this season. It was already a bleak outlook even before the injury to Watson, but this crushing blow all but ends any hope of a turnaround.

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Watson is in his third year in Cleveland after signing a five-year contract worth $230 million in 2022. He has appeared in no more than six games in any season since joining the team as he also suffered a season-ending injury in 2023. The Browns made the playoffs last season but with Joe Flacco as their starting QB.

Overall in the 18 games he has played for the Browns over the past three years, Watson has directed the team to a 9-9 record. He has thrown for 3,237 yards and 19 touchdowns to 12 interceptions in that span.

It will be interesting to see what direction Cleveland goes moving forward following the injury to Deshaun Watson. Winston brings experience and is likely more equipped to help the team win. However, given where the season is at, it may make sense to let Thompson-Robinson gain some experience.

The Browns next have a matchup against the Baltimore Ravens at 1 p.m. ET next Sunday.