Browns QB Deshaun Watson’s Status Up in the Air vs Steelers in Week 11

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson had an MRI on his injured left ankle on Monday, but more information is needed to determine if he’ll be able to suit up against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, according to a report by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

From @NFLTotalAccess: More information is needed to determine the status of #Browns QB Deshaun Watson (ankle) for Sunday. pic.twitter.com/RLPVPebBzI

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 14, 2023

Watson was injured in the first half of the Browns’ Week 10 comeback win over the Baltimore Ravens, but was able to return to the game in the second half and lead Cleveland to victory. 

He was seen in a walking boot after the game, but told reporters that he would be good to play next Sunday against the Steelers. Now a day later, it seems that self-diagnosis is in doubt.

It’s not clear what further information could be needed. The Browns and Steelers are both scheduled to be off on Tuesday before practicing on Wednesday.

P.J. Walker has been backing up Watson and replaced him for one play after the initial injury. He also filled in for multiple games earlier this season while Watson was dealing with a shoulder injury.

Watson has played in just 12 games with Cleveland after coming over from the Houston Texans in a blockbuster trade last offseason. He missed 11 games last year while suspended following over a dozen allegations of sexual misconduct. This season, he played in the first three games before missing three of the next four with the shoulder issue.

This season, Watson is 105 of 171 for 1,115 yards, with seven touchdowns and four interceptions. He has an 84.3 passer rating, a 44.6 QBR and a 5.27 adjusted net yards per attempt.

Walker has fared poorly when pushed into duty. He is 48 of 98 for 618 yards, one touchdown, no interceptions and a 51.3 passer rating. Rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson started the first game with Watson out before Walker was recalled from the practice squad.