Cleveland will not activate quarterback Deshaun Watson from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, coach Kevin Stefanski said Tuesday, according to ESPN.
The decision means that Watson, a former star quarterback at Gainesville High School and Clemson, who tore his right Achilles tendon in October 2024 and then underwent a second surgery in January after retearing it, will not play in this season.
The deadline to activate Watson from the PUP list was Tuesday, when the practice window closed. During the past three weeks, Watson has conducted individual drills and run the scout team offense. He spent the first three months of the season on the list, and the Browns opened his practice window Dec. 3.
The 30-year-old Watson has one year remaining on a five-year, $230 million contract that is fully guaranteed.