Cleveland Browns QB Deshaun Watson made his return to action last week after missing the last 2 games for the Browns. The return was not what Browns fans or fantasy managers of Watson or his pass catchers were hoping for. Watson threw an interception early in the contest, and then took a big hit which forced him into the concussion protocol. After clearing the protocol Watson remained sidelined and hopes were that he would be ready to go week 8 Vs Seattle. Head Coach Kevin Stefanski shut down all hopes of that happening declaring Watson OUT for the game.

Watson continues to be a huge disappointment along with his pass catchers. It turns out the shoulder injury Watson suffered is more troubling than initially thought. Even in the game this past weekend against the Colts before Watson left he didn’t look to have much zip on his passes. The Browns are choosing to let him Rehab this week, but there is no guarantee the shoulder injury will heal enough for Watson or the Browns to feel comfortable with playing him in Week 9.

The Browns signed QB PJ Walker to a 1 yr deal this week and it looks like he is the starter until Watson is 100% ready to return. The problem, though, is an indefinite timetable. In the wake of Watsons absence Walker has been able to be a game manager and do enough to win games for the Browns– but unusable in fantasy. The Browns will continue to look towards utilizing a still strong rushing attack and lean on their defense to compete in games. The Browns have averaged 34 pass attempts a game in non-Watson starts. Avoiding Browns pass catchers where you can is the best option even when Watson returns to action as we learned this past weekend.