Browns' Deshaun Watson to start preseason opener at Jaguars unless he's immediately suspended

Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will participate in an NFL game on Friday night for the first time in over a year if he's still available to do so at that time. 

Per Anthony Poisal of the Browns' website, Watson is scheduled to start Friday's preseason opener at the Jacksonville Jaguars over backup Jacoby Brissett. The three-time Pro Bowl selection didn't play in a single game with the Houston Texans during the 2021 campaign following an offseason trade request and was sent to the Browns in March via a blockbuster deal. 

While Cleveland is hoping the 26-year-old is cleared to play in Jacksonville, Brissett will need to be ready to serve as the club's QB1 just in case. 

The NFL has officially asked appeals officer and former New Jersey Attorney General Peter C. Harvey to ban Watson for an entire year after disciplinary officer Sue L. Robinson initially recommended a six-game suspension regarding allegations of sexual misconduct during massage sessions. 

Per the six-game punishment, Watson is eligible to practice throughout the summer and play in exhibition contests. However, it was reported Wednesday the league wants the signal-caller suspended immediately, and at least one source called it a "slam dunk" that Watson will receive a year-long penalty because of Harvey's "extensive background in prosecuting domestic violence and sexual assault cases" and his supposed desire "to continue to be associated with the NFL." 

Harvey's ruling could theoretically come at any time. For now, though, Watson will be Cleveland's starter at TIAA Bank Field on Friday.