Browns HC Kevin Stefanski makes his feelings known on how Deshaun Watson's return affects Shedeur Sanders

The Cleveland Browns opened Deshaun Watson's practice window on Wednesday, adding another active quarterback to a room that already has Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel and Bailey Zappe. The former Houston Texans star has been recovering from a torn Achilles he suffered in Week 7 of the 2024 season.

Adding another quarterback to the room could have a positive impact on Sanders, who was confirmed as the starter in Week 14. During a Wednesday press availability, head coach Kevin Stefanski discussed how Watson's presence has and will shape the relationship between quarterbacks.

"Shedeur has been outstanding in the meeting room with Deshaun," Stefanski said. "Deshaun has been outstanding with all of those guys, so it’s really an impressive group that helps each other. Having Deshaun out there will be great for Shedeur, I think it's great for Dillon and Bailey, having this guy provides great value to us. Having all these guys on the field, I think it's better for sure."

Deshaun Watson has failed to play more than seven games in a season since he joined the Browns in 2022. The three-time Pro Bowler has gone 341 of 557 for 3,365 yards and 19 touchdowns with 12 interceptions in 19 games with the AFC North franchise.

When asked about Watson's chances to play this season, Stefanski deflected the question and said they were working on different things.

“Really not my focus. Not his focus right this minute. His focus is putting a helmet on, shoulder pads, throwing a football,” Stefanski said. “He’s worked really, really hard, done everything that’s asked. He’s been so supportive.”

Shedeur Sanders explains how Deshaun Watson has helped him during rookie season

Shedeur Sanders discussed how Deshaun Watson has helped him behind the scenes. While he didn't get into details, Sanders teased that reporters will see Watson's impact when he goes out there.

“Well, I’d say for sure, what we do in the meeting room, we keep to ourselves. Y’all able to see what we able to do in public and whatever, but whenever we in the building, we kind of keep that between us," Sanders said.

Sanders will clash with the 2025 No. 1 overall pick, Cam Ward, on Sunday. The Browns (3-9) have started three different quarterbacks this season, and it's unclear if Watson could join that list at some point.