Browns Stick with Watson as Starter After Sanders Start

Cleveland coach Todd Monken confirmed Wednesday that Deshaun Watson remains the starting quarterback for the upcoming home game against Houston. Monken said the decision rested on Watson's overall performance across the season rather than any single outing. Watson had been inactive for the prior road contest after entering concussion protocol and missing practice time.

Sanders fills in during absence

Shedeur Sanders started in Watson's place and completed 19 of 31 passes for 297 yards with two touchdowns. The Browns fell 23-22 in overtime. Monken noted that Watson entered the week at 5-3 as a starter and had put in significant effort to return to availability.

Watson expresses focus on present

Watson stated he held no concerns about his role and that any long-term decision rests with the coaching staff and front office. He emphasized preparing for the matchup against his former team while setting aside past events. Watson's season QBR stands at 40.9, ranking 28th among 31 qualifying passers, while Sanders posted a 40.2 mark in the loss.