Skip to main content

Browns QB Wallace to start vs. Cardinals; Watson placed on IR

BEREA, Ohio -- Cleveland Browns quarterback Colt McCoy has been ruled out for Sunday and tight end Benjamin Watson is done for the season, both victims of concussions.

McCoy still is experiencing headaches and having other symptoms from his concussion, sustained last week on an illegal helmet-to-helmet hit by Pittsburgh linebacker James Harrison.

The second-year quarterback was sent home for the fourth time this week before Friday's practice. Afterward, coach Pat Shurmur announced that backup Seneca Wallace will start in McCoy's place on Sunday in Arizona.

McCoy, who had his head snapped back by Harrison's shot to his face mask, is not traveling with the team. Shurmur said there has been no discussion about putting the McCoy on season-ending injured reserve.

"He's still having some symptoms and that's why we sent him home," Shurmur said.

The Browns also placed Watson on IR, ending his season. Watson suffered his third concussion since July last week against the Steelers. Watson, who was Cleveland's leading receiver last season and had 37 catches this year, visited a specialist on head injuries earlier this week.

"He's disappointed," said Shurmur, who has spoken with Watson. "But it's the right course of action right now."

Browns tight end Evan Moore was disappointed Watson's season ended prematurely, but understood the choice.

"That's a big loss," Moore said. "All of us are really close with Ben. He's doing well. I don't know the ins and outs of how the decision was made, but I know when it comes to the head, it's not something you mess around with. So I think he not only has to think about himself but his family. And Ben's a smart guy, so I'm sure he wanted to go with the right decision."

Shurmur said Watson did not discuss the possibility of retiring with him.

Shurmur added that fullback Owen Marecic is also out this week. He also sustained a concussion -- his second in a month -- against the Steelers. To replace Marecic, the Browns have activated fullback Eddie Williams.

For a complete look at all injuries around the league, go to NFL.com's injury page.

Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press