Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will miss the rest of the NFL season due to a shoulder fracture.
According to ESPN, an MRI performed on Nov. 13 revealed Watson had a displaced fracture to the glenoid in his right shoulder. Team doctors say Watson needs immediate surgery in order to avoid further damage.
Watson, who has thrown for 1,115 yards seven touchdowns and four interceptions this season, is expected to be ready for the 2024 season.
The former Houston Texans quarterback, who returned two weeks ago against the Arizona Cardinals, had his best game since signing with Cleveland. He led the Browns from a two-touchdown fourth-quarter deficit to beat the Baltimore Ravens, 33-31.
According to the Browns, Watson suffered the injury during the first half of the game, but didn’t tell the team about his shoulder discomfort until after the game, which led to the MRI. A second MRI revealed Watson also suffered a high ankle sprain during the game.
Earlier this season, Watson missed four games due to a rotator cuff strain, but Browns general manager Andrew Berry said Wednesday the injury is unrelated to the shoulder fracture Watson suffered.
“We are very disappointed and devastated for Deshaun, especially given all that he has battled and gone through medically this season,” Berry said. “We look at this as an incredible challenge and opportunity for our organization.”
Berry added the Browns will attempt to sign another quarterback. Backup quarterback PJ Walker will likely start in Watson’s place, but he has struggled this season, throwing for 618 yards, one touchdown, and five interceptions in five games.
The Browns, who have won four straight games, are currently 6-3 and tied for second place in the AFC North with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Both teams are half a game behind the Ravens. The two second-place teams will play each other this weekend.