Preseason Plans Amid a Heated QB Battle
As the Cleveland Browns gear up for the 2026 NFL season, all eyes are on the quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson. Under the guidance of new head coach Todd Monken, the Browns are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to finalize a starting quarterback. Although initial expectations might have favored Watson as the starter, Monken is allowing the battle to determine who earns the spot. Monken has publicly stated that both Sanders and Watson will have the opportunity to start in one preseason game each. The decision on who will start which game is yet to be announced and will hinge on their performance in the upcoming week of training camp. The key preseason matchups that will likely influence Monken's decision include games against the Buffalo Bills and the New England Patriots.
Watson’s Long-Term Commitment and Struggles
Deshaun Watson’s stance on his future with the team adds an additional layer of intrigue to the competition. Watson, whose significant contract expires at the end of the season, has expressed a desire to remain in Cleveland. Despite his commitment, Watson has struggled to regain the elite form he displayed during his time with the Houston Texans due to a series of injuries, including two Achilles setbacks since 2024. Notably, he has been hampered by turnovers during camp, with reports indicating he's already thrown six interceptions.
Shedeur Sanders: The Rising Contender
Meanwhile, Shedeur Sanders is making a strong case for the starting job. Though his rookie season had its challenges, including a 3-4 record as a starter with several tough performances, Sanders has reportedly impressed Monken with his development. Monken has emphasized Sanders' growth over the past four months and is pushing him to continue refining his decision-making and huddle management to alleviate his own coaching “anxiety.”
Performance at Training Camp
Both quarterbacks have had up-and-down performances in training camp so far. Reports suggest that neither has clearly outshone the other, leading to the current head-to-head competition. A slightly favorable view appears to exist for Sanders, with sources indicating he may be leading, albeit tentatively, in the race for the top quarterback position.
What's Next for the Browns?
Head coach Todd Monken has not announced which quarterback will start the Browns' first preseason game against the Chicago Bears on August 15. The plan appears to be for Monken to make a decision based on training camp showings, allowing both quarterbacks the opportunity to fight for the starting position. The team’s preseason finale against the New England Patriots might serve as the crucial display that decides the Week 1 starting quarterback. The competition might even broaden beyond Sanders and Watson. Dillon Gabriel, another young quarterback taken two rounds ahead of Sanders in the 2025 NFL Draft, has also been performing well in his limited opportunities, according to Monken, who has been keen to increase reps for players who demonstrate on-field excellence.
Final Thoughts
As it stands, the quarterback question surrounding the Cleveland Browns remains wide open. With preseason games fast approaching, Monken retains an open mind, looking for one of his quarterbacks to step up and make the decision clear. This competition is serving as a focal point for the Browns’ preseason, drawing attention not only for what it means for this season but potentially impacting the franchise’s longer-term future as well.
