Deshaun Watson Cleared for Contact but Will Miss Preseason Game

— Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has been cleared for contact following shoulder surgery but will miss his second consecutive preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings. Watson, who was sidelined during the Browns' 23-10 loss to the Green Bay Packers, is being handled with caution as he recovers from a November surgery to repair a fractured glenoid bone in his right shoulder. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that Watson will participate in joint practices with the Vikings this week, although he did not specify the extent of Watson's involvement. The practices are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, leading up to the game on Saturday. While Watson is cleared for contact, Stefanski emphasized that he will be protected during these sessions to ensure his safety. Throughout training camp, Watson has been actively throwing, occasionally taking breaks to mimic throws in drills. In his absence during the preseason opener, backup quarterback Jameis Winston started, followed by Tyler Huntley and Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who provided a spark with an impressive performance in the second half. Watson's injury history has been a concern, as he has played only 12 regular-season games since 2020 due to various issues, including a contract dispute and an 11-game suspension by the NFL. Despite these setbacks, he managed a 5-1 record in six starts last season, showing signs of returning to form before his recent injury.