thesun
The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation has become a heated competition, with Shedeur Sanders challenging Deshaun Watson for the starting role. Despite earlier indications that Watson would be the presumed starter for the 2026 NFL season, new head coach Todd Monken has opened the door for a genuine battle.
During Tuesday's training camp session, Monken announced that both Sanders and Watson would each start one preseason game. The decision on who starts which game will be based on their performances in the upcoming week of practice. The standout performer is expected to get the nod for the Browns' final preseason matchup against the New England Patriots, while the other will see action against the Buffalo Bills in the second preseason game.
This development comes as Watson, who signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million deal in 2022, has made it clear he wants to remain in Cleveland. His contract expires after this season, but he expressed his affection for the city and his openness to a future extension. Watson told reporters, "I don't have no bad feeling towards Cleveland. I love Cleveland. Me and my wife we have our house on the east side. Again, I don't know why that narrative that I don't like Cleveland is out there. We've been enjoying our time here, and if that opportunity shows up... we'll see where it goes."
Sanders and Watson have been splitting first-team reps since training camp began, and Monken has been impressed with Sanders' progress. "I've been highly impressed over the last four months that I've been around him with how far he's come as a player, and he's only going to continue to get better," Monken said.
Key Analysis
The quarterback competition has overshadowed the performance of Dillon Gabriel, who was drafted two rounds ahead of Sanders in the 2025 NFL Draft. Gabriel has also impressed with limited opportunities, and Monken hinted that the battle could expand to include him. "Everybody's competing, but you're not guaranteed the same amount of reps. So it's up to the player to take advantage and maximise those reps. Which I feel like Dillon has done. So we'll see, if that continues, we will continue to up his reps. If they play well, we have to up their reps, otherwise what's the point in playing well?" Monken added.
As the preseason unfolds, the Browns' coaching staff will have a difficult decision to make, with multiple quarterbacks vying for the starting spot. The competition is expected to intensify in the coming weeks, potentially turning into a three-way race.
Originally reported by thesun.