Overview
- Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Tuesday the team did not activate Watson as his 21-day practice window expired.
- Opened Dec. 3, the window allowed individual work and occasional scout-team reps, but his workload remained limited despite positive reviews.
- By remaining on reserve/PUP, Watson will no longer practice with the team and will continue rehabilitation inside the facility.
- Rookie Shedeur Sanders will start the final two games with Dillon Gabriel in reserve as the Browns continue their evaluation.
- Watson has one year left on his fully guaranteed contract with an estimated $80.7 million 2026 cap hit, and multiple reports indicate he is expected to remain on the roster next season, potentially as a bridge option.