Watson Eyes Preseason Return After Two Achilles Surgeries Sidelined Him Two Years

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson views the upcoming preseason as a showcase opportunity after missing nearly two years due to consecutive Achilles procedures.

BEREA, Ohio -- Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson is preparing for his first game action in nearly two years following a pair of Achilles surgeries. The 30-year-old signal-caller, who has appeared in only 19 games since his March 2022 trade to Cleveland, missed the entirety of the 2025 season. His injury timeline began in October 2024 with a torn right Achilles tendon, followed by a second surgery in January 2025 after he reteared the same ligament. Now healthy, Watson is engaged in a direct competition with Shedeur Sanders for the starting role under head coach Todd Monken.

During the first three practices leading up to Saturday, Watson recorded three interceptions while alternating first-team repetitions with Sanders. Despite the turnovers, Watson characterized the preseason as a "great opportunity" to demonstrate his recovery to critics who suggested he would never play again. The veteran quarterback noted that the current training phase is the appropriate time to commit errors because the results do not count toward the standings. He emphasized the necessity of testing plays in practice to avoid failure during live game scenarios.

Quarterback Competition and Practice Rotations

Coach Todd Monken confirmed that both Watson and Sanders will receive playing time during the preseason alongside the rest of the starting unit. The two quarterbacks have been rotating reps with the primary offense every other practice session to evaluate their readiness. Monken addressed the recent spate of interceptions, stating that while turnovers can serve as teaching tools to push the envelope, there is a limit to their educational value. He indicated that once a certain threshold of mistakes is reached, the focus must shift from instruction to simply protecting the football.

Sanders enters this competition following a rookie season where he climbed the depth chart from the No. 4 position to start the final seven games. On Saturday, Sanders noted that his comfort level has increased significantly in his second year. He credited a refined personal routine and a better understanding of his own process for his current progression. The young quarterback expressed satisfaction with his development since his initial entry into the NFL.

Watson's Recovery and Statistical Context

Deshaun Watson’s tenure in Cleveland has been limited by a combination of injuries and suspension, resulting in less than 20 appearances over more than two seasons. He described his return as a chance to prove himself right and showcase his capabilities after a lengthy absence from the field. Watson stated that the specific number of games or the duration of his playing time in the preseason is irrelevant to him, as his primary focus is simply returning to active competition.

This training camp marks a pivotal point for the Browns' offensive depth chart as Monken evaluates which passer will lead the unit. The team is utilizing these sessions to determine if Watson has regained the form he possessed prior to the October 2024 injury. Meanwhile, Sanders is leveraging his experience from the end of the previous season to challenge for the permanent starting job. The alternating practice schedule ensures both players receive equal exposure to the starting offensive line and receiving corps before the preseason schedule commences.