Browns to start Shedeur Sanders vs. Saints with Deshaun Watson in concussion protocol

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders will take the field against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Deshaun Watson is currently in concussion protocol and is questionable for the game. Sanders made his debut for the Browns in four plays against Pittsburgh last week following Watson's helmet-to-helmet hit. The second-year quarterback, son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, completed both passes for two yards during that game.

Watson re-entered the game after being cleared by a neurotrauma consultant. Sanders, who started the final seven games of his rookie season last year, expressed gratitude for the offseason and his opportunities to practice. The matchup will pit two quarterbacks from the 2025 NFL draft class against each other, with the Saints drafting Tyler Shough at 40th overall.

The Browns, however, traded up to select Sanders in the fifth round. New Orleans' defense ranks 28th in the league in total defense and 23rd against the pass. While the offense will remain largely unchanged, there may be some adjustments with the quarterback and run game. Browns defensive tackle Maliek Collins, who has recorded 3.5 sacks this season, will be absent due to an elbow injury.