Deshaun Watson Makes Progress Amid Troubling Shoulder Injury

Despite beating the San Francisco 49ers with backup P.J. Walker this past week, the Cleveland Browns are eager for starter Deshaun Watson to return as soon as possible. Fortunately for them, Watson appears to be on the mend.

According to Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot, Watson was able to throw the ball a good 30 yards deep in his return to practice from a lingering shoulder injury this week. Per the report, the Browns could name him the starter against the rival Indianapolis Colts on Friday if he continues to show improvement.

Speaking to the media, Browns offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt was reluctant to say that Watson is trending towards playing. But he said that it's clear that Watson is getting better and making progress.

“I’d hate to say (he’s trending toward play),” Van Pelt said. “I know he’s getting better, obviously, because he’s going to be out there today.”

Deshaun Watson is 2-1 on the season and has completed 63.7-percent of his passes for 678 yards and four touchdowns with two interceptions. 

The Browns lost their lone start with rookie Dorian Thompson-Robinson at the helm, but pulled off the biggest upset of the season with a win over the previously-undefeated San Francisco 49ers with P.J. Walker the following week. 

Watson's return might cause some controversy if the team loses upon his return.