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Deshaun Watson did not play in the Cleveland Browns' 2024 NFL preseason opener against the Green Bay Packers on Saturday. The quarterback will also miss the Browns' Week 2 preseason matchup against the Minnesota Vikings next Saturday.
Nonetheless, the good news for Cleveland fans is that Watson's surgically repaired throwing shoulder has been cleared for full contact. Coach Kevin Stefanski also said that the Browns' starting quarterback will take on most of the reps when Cleveland holds joint practices with the Vikings on Wednesday and Thursday.
"He [Watson] will get the vast majority of the reps; again, not playing in the game on Saturday night, so he'll get his work done versus them in a controlled setting," Stefanski said on Sunday.
In Watson's absence, Jameis Winston will start for the Browns in their preseason clash against the Vikings. Cleveland's backups Tyler Huntley and Dorian Thompson-Robinson might also feature after getting a few reps against the Packers.
Watson has not played a game for the Browns since November 2023, when he broke a bone in his right shoulder. He underwent surgery and has thrown in all but one of Cleveland's training camp practices this year.
Deshaun Watson details rehab from last year's season-ending shoulder injury
Deshaun Watson spoke to reporters about his shoulder injury and rehab in July. The quarterback said there were no more setbacks on his road to recovery.
"I just have been taking it one day at a time," Watson said. "Everything has been set in stone (with the rehab schedule), and I haven’t had any setbacks or anything that’s holding me back."
"It’s been beautiful," Watson said about his rehab process. "It’s been a blessing just to be able to sit back and recollect everything that’s been going on. This is a blessing to be able to continue to play the game of football and have the people that want you to succeed. For me to even be back throwing the football is definitely my top point."
The Browns will face the Seattle Seahawks in their third preseason game on Aug. 24. It remains to be seen whether Watson will be able to suit up for Cleveland's final preseason game before the regular season begins.
