Following a game-winning interception, Browns quarterback PJ Walker was ripped

On Sunday, the Cleveland Browns led late, but the Seattle Seahawks prevailed 24–20 thanks to an interception by PJ Walker.

With just under two minutes remaining, Walker attempted a pass on third down, 3rd and 3, but the ball was intercepted after deflecting off Seahawks defender Jamal Adams’ helmet. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, a rookie for the Seahawks, scored in the end zone shortly after, giving Seattle the victory.

Walker nearly threw an interception and was sacked during the Browns’ desperate attempt to win the game after the Seahawks scored.

Online comments directed towards Walker, who is covering for an injured Deshaun Watson, were harsh.

“PJ Walker ought to never again start an NFL game. One admirer posted on X (previously known as Twitter) that this was awful.

Some criticized the front staff for lacking greater awareness of the backup quarterback situation.

“Don’t tell me he performed well. He took it all apart. A different fan tweeted, “I don’t need any of that. “PJ Walker was brought in as a backup, and that decision is on the front office.”

Walker’s decision-making in the last moments did not seem to please Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski either.

After the game, Stefanski remarked, “With the outcome, you’re always thinking what we can do differently.” There were choices for us. Of course you can run it. Of course you can pass it. However, the outcome was difficult.

For the past three weeks, Walker has been the starting quarterback for the Browns. Walker relived Watson’s exit against the Indianapolis Colts after just one quarter of play, having started two of the team’s games.

Against the Seahawks, Walker committed three total errors: two interceptions and one lost fumble.

Browns Need to Investigate Backup QB Option at Trade Deadline

Walker was doing fairly well until the last, expensive turnover. With a touchdown and a season-high 248 yards, he concluded the game. However, the Browns can’t win with these inopportune turnovers.

The Browns are required to decide on their backup quarterback situation by Tuesday, October 31. They have two options: either stick with Walker or make a trade for one of the league’s more well-known veteran backup quarterbacks, like Andy Dalton or Jacoby Brissett.

The Browns would benefit from having an experienced backup in case Watson reinjures his shoulder or if his return schedule takes longer than anticipated. It’s evident that the Browns will exercise extreme caution with their $230 million quarterback and won’t let him to return to action if his health is in doubt.

Deshaun Watson Expected to Play Next Week

Watson visited Seattle but did not do anything. He has been recovering from his shoulder for the past week, and the Browns announced in the midst of the week that he would miss their game against the Seahawks. It is hoped that Watson will return the following week. If not, ESPN’s Adam Schefter says it shouldn’t last longer than two weeks.

“Deshaun Watson, the quarterback for the Browns, is still expected to be sidelined for four weeks due to a rotator cuff injury, but it is not expected to be a long-term absence that would require him to be placed on injured reserve, per sources,” Schefter tweeted on Sunday, October 29.

“While the Browns will continue to be cautious with him, it is, in the words of one source, ‘unlikely that it’s longer than two weeks.’”

To that claim, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler added: “It’s not a done deal, but the Browns are hoping he can be back as soon as next week.”

With Watson starting for the Browns this season, they are 3-1, however one of those victories was after he left the Colts game early. In addition to having 683 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions, he is completing 61.7% of his attempts. Next week, the Browns take on the Arizona Cardinals, who have only one win.