Deshaun Watson Injury Update: Recovery Progress and Return Timeline for Cleveland Browns QB

Updated 15 October 2025 06:42 PM

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Deshaun Watson Injury Update: Recovery Progress and Return Timeline for Cleveland Browns QB

Deshaun Watson Injury Update

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is still recovering from a torn Achilles injury. NFL insider Adam Schefter said on the Pat McAfee Show that Watson is about a month away from being cleared for football activity.​

Watson tore his Achilles in Week 7 of the 2024 season against Cincinnati. He re-injured it during the offseason which made his recovery longer. The Browns placed him on the physically unable to perform list before the 2025 season began. He has not practiced or played since.​

Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski said Watson is doing fine in rehab and has been off his walking boot for weeks. He attends team meetings and works daily with trainers. Stefanski said progress is steady but he will not commit to a return date.​

Watson’s recovery has been slow but steady. The team hopes to see him begin light football work in November if doctors approve. For now Cleveland plans to continue with rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel while Shedeur Sanders serves as backup.​

Watson’s health is not Cleveland’s only issue. His five-year 230 million dollar deal is fully guaranteed and runs through 2026. If he stays on the injured list for the rest of this season the Browns could get some salary cap relief but if he returns they must put him on the roster. That would shift his salary cap numbers again creating new financial problems.​

In four years with Cleveland Watson has played only nineteen games. He has thrown for 3365 yards with 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. His completion rate stands at 61 percent with a passer rating of around 80.​

Fans have mixed feelings about his return. Some want him back because the Browns are 1-5 and struggling to move the ball. Others think the team should keep focusing on younger options. With the team scoring under 20 points in every game this season frustration is rising.​

Watson’s next medical test will be key. If results are positive he could start football drills in about a month. That would open a small window for a late-season return. But another setback could end his season for good.​

For now the Browns say only one thing. Watson is rehabbing, staying patient and waiting for medical clearance. Nothing more can be said until doctors confirm his Achilles is strong enough to handle football stress again.

Disclaimer

The information provided regarding Deshaun Watson's injury and recovery is based on available reports and statements from official sources. Updates may change as new medical evaluations and team announcements are made. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to official Cleveland Browns communications and trusted sports news outlets.

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