Shedeur Sanders prepares to start for the Cleveland Browns as Deshaun Watson enters the NFL concussion protocol following a helmet hit.

The Cleveland Browns are preparing for a major lineup change as quarterback Shedeur Sanders moves into the QB1 role. This shift occurs because starting quarterback Deshaun Watson has been placed into the official NFL concussion protocol following a recent game.

The situation developed after Deshaun Watson experienced lingering symptoms the day after taking a heavy helmet-to-helmet hit during Sunday's matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh. The Cleveland Browns announced these medical updates on Wednesday afternoon.

According to information published by bleache, Shedeur Sanders is now next in line to start the upcoming game, while teammate Dillon Gabriel prepares to serve as the primary backup quarterback if needed.

Deshaun Watson Concussion Timeline And Symptoms

During the recent 27-6 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, Deshaun Watson took a hard hit in the first quarter. Medical staff evaluated the player on site, and an independent consultant initially cleared him to return to the field during the game.

However, Deshaun Watson began experiencing noticeable concussion symptoms on Monday night. He subsequently reported these ongoing health concerns directly to the Cleveland Browns medical team on Tuesday morning, triggering the mandatory protocol.

Shedeur Sanders And Dillon Gabriel Ready For New Orleans Saints Game

With Deshaun Watson sidelined, rookie and backup signal-caller Shedeur Sanders is getting first-team repetitions. The team is actively preparing him to start under center this coming Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.

Additionally, quarterback Dillon Gabriel is currently on track to step into the backup role for the Cleveland Browns. This contingency plan remains in effect unless Deshaun Watson receives official clearance from independent medical professionals before Sunday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Shedeur Sanders starting for the Cleveland Browns?

Shedeur Sanders is stepping in as the starting quarterback because Deshaun Watson was placed into the NFL concussion protocol after reporting symptoms following the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

When did Deshaun Watson report his concussion symptoms?

Deshaun Watson experienced concussion symptoms on Monday night and officially reported them to the Cleveland Browns training staff on Tuesday morning.

Who will be the backup quarterback if Deshaun Watson cannot play?

If Deshaun Watson is not cleared by Sunday, Dillon Gabriel is on track to serve as the backup quarterback behind Shedeur Sanders against the New Orleans Saints.