Volkswacht Bodensee - Watson undergoes shoulder surgery, set for 2024 NFL return

Watson suffered a displaced fracture of the glenoid (socket) in his throwing shoulder during the first half on November 12 but stayed in the game to rally the Browns past Baltimore 33-31.

The surgery was done in Los Angeles by Dr. Neal ElAttrache.

"The rehab process is scheduled to begin on Friday and a full recovery is expected prior to the start of the 2024 season," the team said in a statement.

Watson, who signed a five-year guaranteed deal worth $230 million with the Browns last year, has thrown for 2,217 yards and 14 touchdowns with nine interceptions over two seasons, leading Cleveland to an 8-4 record.

With five triumphs this season, Watson has the Browns at 7-3 and in the fifth playoff position in the AFC. Cleveland has reached the playoffs only once since 2002.

Fifth-round NFL Draft pick Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who captured his first NFL triumph last Sunday over Pittsburgh, is living a rookie dream as Watson's replacement.

Watson spent his first four NFL seasons with Houston but sat out the 2021 campaign following sexual assault allegations by multiple massage therapists, with most of the lawsuits against him settled.

The NFL suspended him for 11 games last year, his six starts in 2022 matching the number he made this year.

R.Buehler--VB