The Cleveland Browns can make a breakthrough this season after making the playoffs last year. In addition to having an elite defense, they will have an improved offense thanks to returning stars and some acquisitions.
However, the Browns are dealing with hiccups leading into their season opener because of Deshaun Watson and Denzel Ward's injuries. The 27-year-old defensive back is reportedly dealing with a concussion, his fifth injury of that nature since 2018.
The three-time Pro Bowl cornerback hasn't played an entire regular season since signing a five-year, $100.5 million contract extension. While he played only 14 games in 2022, he established career highs in tackles (53) and interceptions (3). A year later, he suited up for 13 games, finishing with 34 tackles and 11 passes defended.
Meanwhile, quarterback Deshaun Watson skipped practice due to arm soreness. That condition jeopardizes his status for the Browns' final preseason game. The Pro Bowl quarterback hasn't played an entire season since signing a five-year, $230 million contract with the Browns.
NEWS: #Browns QB Deshaun Watson has arm SORENESS & was held out of practice.
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) August 21, 2024
It is unknown if you will play in the final preseason game.
Watson continues to be riddled with injuries since joining Cleveland. pic.twitter.com/TclB0cXTPd
He served an 11-game suspension in 2022 for violating the league's personal conduct policy due to the alleged sexual misconduct cases against him. Just when he was gaining momentum last year, he suffered a season-ending shoulder injury that required surgery.
Ward and Watson will be invaluable to the Browns' fate this season. They need both at the top of their game, especially when they have one of the toughest schedules in 2024.
-Lance Fernandez