Browns to Start Watson Against Texans

Deshaun Watson will return from a concussion to start for Cleveland against his former team, the Houston Texans, in a pivotal game for both clubs’ playoff hopes. Browns coach Todd Monken said Watson earned the job with his performance over the first eight games, but the role is not guaranteed beyond this week; a bye afterward could give Cleveland time to reassess. Shedeur Sanders showed promise in relief against New Orleans, while rookie Dillon Gabriel remains another option. Cleveland, which is 5-4, needs to protect Watson against a Houston defense that recorded eight sacks in its previous game and improve its struggling run game. The Texans come in off a 44-22 win over the Chargers, with C.J. Stroud throwing five touchdown passes.