Is Deshaun Watson playing in the Browns preseason finale vs. the Seattle Seahawks

As the preseason wraps up for the Browns on a late Saturday night in Seattle, the big question on everyone’s mind is whether Deshaun Watson will suit up and take the field. Browns fans might be staying up late, not just to see their team, but to catch a glimpse of their starting quarterback. It’s always the quarterback, isn’t it? But with Watson, the uncertainty lingers.

Head coach Kevin Stefanski has left us all guessing. He’s hinted that all starters “who can go” will play, but that’s as vague as it gets. Who exactly is ready to go, and for how long? We’ve seen Stefanski trot out his starters for the better part of a quarter in past preseasons, except for a few untouchables like Myles Garrett, Joel Bitonio, and a healthy Nick Chubb. Normally, this would include the starting quarterback, but this year, it’s not so simple.

Deshaun Watson hasn’t taken a snap since last November when a shoulder injury ended his season. The plan, Stefanski said, was for Watson to get some action against the Seahawks, giving fans a much-needed taste of what he could bring this season. But there’s always an “if” with these things. This week, that “if” has been Watson’s arm soreness and the team’s left tackle issues, both of which have thrown a wrench into the Browns’ best-laid plans.

Watson did return to practice on Thursday, but nothing is set in stone until 90 minutes before kickoff. So, Browns fans, keep your eyes peeled at 8:30 p.m. back home because that’s when we’ll know for sure. Don’t be too shocked if it’s backup Jameis Winston leading the offense instead. Watson’s health and the precarious state of the offensive line might mean a cautious approach.

Speaking of that offensive line, Germain Ifedi has suddenly found himself in the spotlight. The Browns signed Ifedi with the idea that he’d add depth on the right side, but injuries have thrust him into the left tackle position - a place he’s only visited four times in his NFL career. With Jedrick Wills Jr. still recovering from knee surgery and other options either hurt or ineffective, Ifedi is now Cleveland’s best hope on the left side.

It’s not ideal, but Ifedi has logged more snaps at left tackle this preseason than anyone could’ve expected. He’s a seasoned pro with 102 games under his belt, yet playing left tackle in a game is a whole different ballgame. Against the Seahawks, he’ll likely double the 33 left-side snaps he’s already taken, and the Browns are banking on him to hold up.

Saturday’s game isn’t just about the big names, though. It’s a last-chance showcase for players on the roster bubble. Injuries have opened doors for younger guys to step up, and some have taken full advantage. These aren’t just meaningless reps - they’re opportunities to make a statement before the final cuts.

Take rookie cornerback Myles Harden, linebacker Mohamoud Diabate, and second-year corner Kahlef Hailassie. They’ve all seen significant playing time this preseason, and they’re making their case to stick around. Even former Steelers first-round pick Devin Bush has been out there grinding, trying to revive a career that was derailed by injury. These guys aren’t household names, but they’re the ones you’ll want to watch on Saturday.

And while we’re on the topic of players to watch, keep an eye on quarterback Tyler Huntley. He’s been solid, if unspectacular, in his preseason appearances, but with the quarterback room as crowded as it is, his future with the team is uncertain. A good showing could either solidify his spot or make him attractive trade bait before the roster cutdown.

Lastly, there’s tight end Zaire Mitchell-Paden, who’s looking to capitalize on an unfortunate injury to Giovanni Ricci. Mitchell-Paden has been the Browns’ top receiver in preseason and might just secure a spot on the 53-man roster. If things break his way, he could finally move from practice squad mainstay to a more permanent role.

So, while the preseason finale in Seattle might not have the glitz and glamour of a regular-season game, there’s still plenty on the line. Watson’s status, the left tackle situation, and the fight for roster spots are all worth staying up for, even if it means a late night for Browns fans back in Ohio.