Deshaun Watson's Return to the Field
Deshaun Watson is set to take the field for the Cleveland Browns as their starting quarterback in the preseason opener against the Chicago Bears. This marks Watson's first game action since October 2024 after a long hiatus due to injuries. Watson, once a Pro Bowl-level quarterback with the Houston Texans, has faced significant setbacks since joining the Browns in 2022, including a season-ending shoulder injury and back-to-back ruptures of his Achilles tendon. First-year Browns head coach Todd Monken announced that Watson will start the first half of the game, providing him an opportunity to regain confidence and showcase his evolution as a player at age 30. The Browns hope that Watson can rediscover the form that once made him one of the NFL's top quarterbacks.
Shedeur Sanders Competes for the Starting Spot
Following Watson, Shedeur Sanders is scheduled to take over in the second half of the game. Sanders, who is also vying for the starting quarterback position, will have his chance to impress the coaching staff. The competition between Watson and Sanders has been intense throughout training camp, with both players receiving ample first-team reps during practice. Sanders, a promising young quarterback, is entering his second season with the Browns and will start the second preseason game against the Buffalo Bills. Despite dealing with a blister issue earlier in training camp, Sanders confirms he is fully healed and ready for the challenge. Monken remarked that alternating starting duties in the first two games will allow both quarterbacks the opportunity to operate the offense in a game setting.
Head Coach Monken's Approach
Coach Monken has kept his reasons for starting Watson first close to the vest, but he emphasizes the ongoing nature of the competition. The Browns plan to make a decision on the starting quarterback for the regular season prior to their September 13 opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Monken acknowledges the different stages of Watson's and Sanders' careers and insists on giving each a fair shot. “We’re going to see both of them,” Monken stated. “One’s going to start this week and one’s going to start next week. We’ll get a chance to see them both.”
Implications for the Browns' Season
The outcome of this quarterback competition will have significant implications for the Cleveland Browns as they aim to contend in a competitive AFC North division. Watson's performance will be closely monitored, given his injuries and the weight of his fully guaranteed $230 million contract. A resurgence could well see him reclaim his stature, while continued struggles might open the door for Sanders to seize a more prominent role. Monken's strategy of alternating starting duties demonstrates the Browns' commitment to thoroughly evaluating both quarterbacks. With the regular season approaching, the coaching decisions made over the next few weeks will shape the team's offensive outlook and potentially its fortunes in the 2026 NFL season.
