Deshaun Watson is not expected to suit up for the next game. The Cleveland Browns confirmed he will remain on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list while continuing his rehabilitation. According to Zac Jackson of The Athletic, when Kevin Stefanski was asked if there’s a scenario where Watson plays this year. 

“I understand the question, but I’m really focused on this week,” Stefanski said.

However, as per a post by Tom Withers on X, Stefanski praised his rehab. 

“Stefanski said Deshaun Watson is “doing an excellent job” in rehab, won’t comment on the possibility of him playing this season. Focus on this week,” the post read.

Watson first tore his right Achilles tendon during Week 7 of the 2024 season. The unexpected expense restructured the quarterback depth chart for the Browns. He underwent surgery on October 25, 2024. During his rehab in January 2025, he re-ruptured the same tendon, forcing a second surgery. That setback dramatically increased the difficulty and timeline of his return.  

The superstar had great hopes, but ever since the Browns traded three first-round selections for Watson and gave him a fully guaranteed $230 million contract in 2022, Deshaun Watson has been a letdown. He has only thrown 12 interceptions and 19 touchdowns in 19 starts. If Watson does not play again, the team may be able to recoup some of his $230 million guaranteed deal through an insurance policy.

Deshaun Watson has now been removed from his walking boot and reportedly is throwing passes at the team facility. But Cleveland has not yet opened his practice window. Once that window opens, the team has 21 days to activate him or shut him down for the season.

The Browns clash with the Steelers on the turnpike

One of the NFL’s oldest rivalries will be renewed when the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers play each other on October 12, 2025. At 82–64–1, the Steelers are in the lead in the series. They have faced off in three postseason encounters since their rivalry began in 1950 (Steelers lead 2-1).

After Joe Flacco was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland gave youngster Dillon Gabriel the quarterback position. The Browns continue to play a modest running game and rely heavily on Myles Garrett, who leads the team in sacks (4). Pittsburgh anticipates the return of Jaylen Warren, Alex Highsmith, and Joey Porter Jr. Aaron Rodgers leads the offense with eight touchdown passes to date, while star linebacker T. J. Watt spearheads the pass rush.

“I wanted to get back before the bye week, just to get my little groove in, but it was for the greater good that I sat, get some more time,” Joey Porter Jr. said.

The Browns have a modest offensive output through Week 5 (1,441 total yards vs. 1,239 allowed). They have a -4 turnover margin and convert 29 out of 67 third downs. In contrast, the Steelers allow 1,054 yards while gaining 1,530 yards on offense and 798 passing yards. It usually comes down to who controls the tempo and forces turnovers in this matchup. In the past, the Steelers have dominated this matchup. However, Cleveland has only defeated Pittsburgh 5–14–1 in five seasons.

The Browns might steal a victory on the road if Gabriel can keep the ball safe and Garrett can put pressure on Rodgers.