Cleveland Browns’ Contingency Plan for Week 6 if Deshaun Watson is Inactive

The availability of star quarterback Deshaun Watson for the Week 6 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers remains uncertain, and the Cleveland Browns have maintained a degree of ambiguity in their public statements, with head coach Kevin Stefanski offering little insight.

While teams are not obligated to disclose detailed injury information until the initial Wednesday injury report, there seems to be little advantage in withholding transparency in such situations.

Recent reports suggest that Watson is dealing with a specific shoulder contusion. In the absence of their starting quarterback, the Browns turned to rookie QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson in Week 4 and elevated PJ Walker from the practice squad. If Watson is unable to play in Week 6, the Browns are reportedly planning to start Walker against the 49ers:

According to insider sources, the Browns are poised to entrust P.J. Walker with the starting role over rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson in the event of Watson’s absence this Sunday, as reports

In his 15-game career with the Carolina Panthers, which included five starts last season, Walker completed 58% of his passes but also had three touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Despite these less-than-ideal career statistics, Walker’s experience could be crucial, especially given DTR’s struggles in Week 4 and the formidable Niners defense. If Walker gets the nod for the game, he’ll have one more opportunity for elevation before being required to join the 53-man roster to continue playing.

Clearly, the Browns are hopeful for Watson’s speedy recovery, but having a seasoned veteran like Walker ready for Week 6 is a prudent and safe decision.