Deshaun Watson avoids disaster, returns to Browns-Steelers matchup after concussion check

D eshaun Watson 's return to prominence with the Cleveland Browns faced another potential setback on Sunday when a frightening hit against the Pittsburgh Steelers forced the quarterback to leave the field for a concussion evaluation.

The 31-year-old was struck in the helmet by Steelers safety Jaquan Brisker during Cleveland's opening possession at Acrisure Stadium, immediately raising concerns about his availability for one of the Browns ' most important divisional games of the season.

Brisker was penalized for roughing the passer after making contact with Watson's head as the quarterback released the football. Watson initially remained on the ground before getting to his feet and heading toward the sideline.

Medical personnel directed him into the blue evaluation tent, leaving backup Shedeur Sanders to take control of Cleveland's offense while Watson underwent concussion checks.

However, the Browns received encouraging news within minutes when Watson emerged from the tent, collected his helmet and returned for the team's second offensive possession after clearing the evaluation.

Sanders ' unexpected introduction provided another opportunity for the young quarterback, who has spent much of the season behind Watson on Cleveland's depth chart.

The former Colorado standout completed both passing attempts for two yards during his brief appearance, but the possession ended when tight end Harold Fannin Jr. lost a fumble.

Watson 's return ensured Sanders ' opportunity lasted only one series, allowing head coach Todd Monken to continue with the quarterback who had helped Cleveland establish a 5-2 record entering Week 8.

The veteran's performances have been instrumental in the Browns ' improved results, particularly after a difficult period for the franchise that raised questions about its long-term quarterback situation.

Watson entered Sunday's contest having completed 64.8 percent of his passes for 1,482 yards, while contributing eight total touchdowns against three interceptions.

He had also played an important role in Cleveland's 27-24 victory over Pittsburgh earlier in the season, completing 24 of 33 passes for 268 yards and a touchdown.

Injury relief overshadowed by difficult Steelers defeat

Although Watson avoided an extended absence, his return didn't prevent Cleveland from enduring another difficult afternoon against its AFC North rival.

The quarterback's problems continued shortly after reentering the contest, when he lost a fumble on a sack that handed Pittsburgh favorable field position.

The Steelers capitalized on Cleveland's mistakes and eventually secured a convincing 27-6 victory, moving ahead of the Browns in the divisional standings.

Despite the disappointing result, Watson 's successful concussion evaluation represented an important development for Monken, whose offense has relied on the veteran throughout the campaign.

Sanders remains Cleveland's primary backup, while Dillon Gabriel was designated the emergency third quarterback for Sunday's game.

The Browns will now assess their performance after a damaging divisional defeat, although the immediate concern surrounding Watson's availability was resolved before the opening quarter had finished.

His return prevented an unexpected quarterback change from becoming another significant complication for a team attempting to remain in the AFC playoff race.