Browns QB Deshaun Watson Will Have Shoulder Surgery, Out for Season

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will undergo surgery to repair a broken bone in his right shoulder and miss the remained of the 2023 season, the team announced on Wednesday.

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Watson suffered the injury during his team’s 33-31 comeback win over the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday. He also suffered a high-ankle sprain, which was originally thought to be the more serious of the two injuries.

He underwent an MRI on Monday and after consultation with a specialist, the Browns and Watson decided that surgery to repair the fracture in the glenoid of his throwing shoulder will be necessary. He will miss the remainder of the 2023 season and is expected to make a full recovery for the start of the 2024 season. The team released the following statement

“Deshaun Watson underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Monday on two injuries sustained on different plays in the first half of Sunday’s 33-31 win over the Baltimore Ravens. Imaging on his left ankle revealed a high-ankle sprain.”

“In addition, postgame, Deshaun notified our medical staff of a new discomfort in his right shoulder that he felt after a hit in the first half. An MRI of his right shoulder revealed a displaced fracture to the glenoid. 

“Despite performing at a high level and finishing the game, after consultation with the Browns’ Head Physician, James Voos, MD, and industry-leading shoulder specialist, Neal ElAttrache, MD, it has been determined that this injury will require immediate surgical repair to avoid further structural damage. 

“Deshaun will be placed on season-ending injured reserve and a full recovery is expected for the start of the 2024 season.”

Watson has been dealing with a nagging shoulder injury throughout the early part of the 2023 season which had already caused him to miss three games. P.J. Walker should be expected to start in place of Watson against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.