The Cleveland Browns received an encouraging update on Denzel Boston’s toe injury Wednesday as Deshaun Watson prepares to return to the starting lineup against the Houston Texans.
Boston was not expected to participate in Wednesday’s practice, leaving his availability among the questions facing Cleveland ahead of Sunday’s matchup.
The Browns’ rookie receiver has recorded 32 receptions for 507 yards and three touchdowns through nine games. His availability would give Watson a productive target as Cleveland looks to rebound from consecutive losses.
Cleveland.com’s Mary Kay Cabot shared coach Todd Monken’s assessment Wednesday on X, formerly Twitter, outlining when the Browns expect Boston to return to the practice field.
“#Browns Todd Monken said he anticipates WR Denzel Boston (toe) being back in practice on Thursday.”
Boston is coming off his most productive receiving performance of the season. He caught six passes for a career-high 98 yards in Cleveland’s 23-22 overtime loss to the New Orleans Saints, including a 60-yard reception.
Shedeur Sanders started that game while Watson remained sidelined following a concussion. The Browns confirmed Wednesday that the veteran quarterback will reclaim the starting role against his former team.
Watson helped Cleveland reach 5-3 before missing Week 9. Across eight appearances, he has completed 163 of 249 passes for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions. He added 217 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground as well.
The Browns enter at 5-4 as they return home following a three-game road stretch. Sunday’s kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT at Huntington Bank Field on FOX.
Monken’s expectation is a positive sign, but Boston has not been cleared to play based on that update alone. His participation over the remaining practices will help clarify his Week 10 availability.