Deshaun Watson is finally back on the field for the Cleveland Browns, at least in a limited capacity.
The team has opened his 21 day practice window after nearly fourteen months away following a torn right Achilles in Week 7 of 2024 and a subsequent rerupture that required a second surgery in January 2025.
For now, Watson is working through individual drills, helmet and pads on again for the first time in over a year.
Where Deshaun Watson fits in the Browns’ QB plans
Cleveland’s quarterback room looks completely different from the last time Watson took a snap. The Browns have already started three different quarterbacks in 2025: veteran Joe Flacco, third round rookie Dillon Gabriel, and fifth round rookie Shedeur Sanders, who is set for his third straight start in Week 14 against the Tennessee Titans.
We've designated QB Deshaun Watson for return to practice
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) December 3, 2025
The team sits at 3-9 and last in the AFC North, with ownership already calling the massive trade and fully guaranteed five year, 230 million dollar contract a “big swing and miss.” Watson has appeared in only 19 games since arriving from the Houston Texans, posting a 9-10 record and struggling to anything close to his former Pro Bowl form.
Why the Browns are cautious with Watson’s return
The Browns have three games within Watson’s practice window, against the Titans, Chicago Bears and Buffalo Bills, before closing the season versus the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals.
They must either activate him to the 53 man roster or shut him down on injured reserve for the rest of the year once the window closes. Stefanski continues to stress that the immediate focus is simply getting Watson back to practicing football, not on naming him a starter or forcing him into games.
Browns designated QB Deshaun Watson for return to practice.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 3, 2025
Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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