Deshaun Watson will return to the Cleveland Browns’ lineup against a Houston Texans defense missing key players. Houston ruled out edge rusher Danielle Hunter with a hamstring injury and linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair with a groin injury. Edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. is questionable with an ankle injury after missing Friday’s practice.
The absences could matter for Watson, who has been sacked 33 times in eight appearances. He was taken down eight times in his last start against Pittsburgh, when Cleveland scored just six points. Watson also took a hit from Jaquan Brisker before missing time with a concussion. Houston’s injury news comes shortly after its pass rush recorded eight sacks against the Los Angeles Chargers, tying a franchise record.
## Jadeveon Clowney Could Have a Bigger Role Against Cleveland
Hunter’s absence could give former Browns defensive end Jadeveon Clowney a larger role. Clowney is expected to replace Hunter, while Logan Hall could also see more playing time.
Clowney’s return to Cleveland comes with added history. The Browns hosted him during training camp, but he ultimately signed with Houston. He was also discussed as a possible trade option before the deadline, though Houston’s win over the Chargers made a reunion less likely.
Cleveland will need to account for Clowney while trying to protect Watson. The Browns have allowed 38 sacks through nine games, and the issue continued after a quarterback change: Shedeur Sanders was sacked five times in his start against New Orleans.
“(The pass rush) affects everything you do in the pass game. That’s what you have to think about first. And everybody’s got a piece of that,” Browns offensive coordinator Travis Switzer said. “Anytime you play premier pass rushers, that’s got to be at the front of your mind when it comes to any pass play, really.”
## Browns Monitor Denzel Boston’s Status
Watson’s receiving group also has an injury concern. Rookie receiver Denzel Boston, Cleveland’s leader with 507 receiving yards, is questionable with a toe injury. He returned to practice on a limited basis Friday and was seen leaving the locker room in a walking boot.
Fullback Michael Burton is out with a calf injury. Cleveland received better news on the offensive line: Austin Barber, Tytus Howard and Elgton Jenkins practiced fully Friday and were not given a game designation.
Watson is returning to the starting role after Sanders threw for 297 yards and two touchdowns in Cleveland’s 23–22 overtime loss to New Orleans. Coach Todd Monken named Watson the starter Wednesday as the Browns look to end a two-game losing streak before their bye.
“Yeah, it’s a big opportunity for us. Get back on the winning track, especially in front of our home fans,” Watson said Wednesday.
Cleveland enters Sunday’s game with a 5–4 record. A win would send the Browns into their bye at 6–4 before they return to the schedule against Las Vegas on November 29.
