Browns QB Deshaun Watson's Offseason Training Sparks QB1 Controversy

Fans divided over Watson's comeback and QB battle with Shedeur Sanders as Browns eye next season

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Deshaun Watson, who missed the entire 2025 NFL season recovering from an Achilles injury, has started his offseason training with the Cleveland Browns, sparking debate over whether he will reclaim the starting quarterback position. Fans are sharply divided, with some expressing doubts about Watson's injury history and past performance, while others remain supportive of his potential. The Browns' investment in Watson and his struggles since signing a lucrative contract in 2022 have added to the uncertainty, as the team also considers rising star Shedeur Sanders as a potential QB1 option under new head coach Todd Monken.

Why it matters

The outcome of the QB1 battle between Watson and Sanders will have significant implications for the Browns' offense and their competitiveness in the 2026 season. With the team's leadership changes and the potential for additional quarterback moves, the upcoming offseason and training camp will be crucial in determining who will command the starting role and shape the franchise's direction.

The details

Deshaun Watson, who missed the entire 2025 season due to an Achilles tendon surgery, has started his offseason training in Cleveland as the Browns prepare for the next campaign. This return to the field has generated debate over whether Watson will claim the starting quarterback position, highlighting the uncertain future of the Browns' offense. ESPN Cleveland recently released footage showing Watson engaged in throwing drills, signaling his intent to compete for the QB1 spot. This has sparked diverse reactions from fans and analysts, with some expressing doubt about Watson's injury history and past performance, while others remain supportive of his potential.

  • Deshaun Watson missed the entire 2025 NFL season recovering from Achilles tendon surgery.
  • In 2022, the Browns signed Watson to a five-year, fully guaranteed contract worth $230 million.
  • Over the last three years, Watson has appeared in only 19 games, accumulating 3,365 passing yards and 19 touchdowns.
  • During the 2025 season, rookie Shedeur Sanders stepped up as the Browns' primary backup quarterback after Dillon Gabriel was traded midseason.
  • The Browns replaced head coach Kevin Stefanski with Todd Monken following a disappointing 2025 season.

The players

Deshaun Watson

A quarterback for the Cleveland Browns who missed the entire 2025 NFL season due to an Achilles tendon injury. He signed a five-year, fully guaranteed contract worth $230 million with the Browns in 2022, but his tenure has been hampered by off-field issues and a series of injuries.

Shedeur Sanders

A rookie quarterback for the Cleveland Browns who stepped up as the primary backup in the 2025 season and earned recognition as a Pro Bowler, positioning himself as a viable candidate to compete for the starting QB1 role.

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns, hired after the team's disappointing 2025 season, with the goal of revitalizing the team's offense and quarterback situation.

Mary Kay Cabot

An insider for the Cleveland Browns who has suggested that the team might pit Deshaun Watson against Shedeur Sanders for the starting quarterback role.

Joe Flacco

The starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns in the 2025 season, before rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders took over the role.

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What’s next

The upcoming offseason and training camp will be critical in determining who will command the QB1 role for the Browns, with the potential for the team to explore additional quarterback options through free agency or trades.

The takeaway

The ongoing QB1 battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders highlights the uncertainty surrounding the Browns' offense and the challenges the team faces in rebuilding under new leadership. The outcome of this competition could significantly shape the franchise's direction and competitiveness for the 2026 season and beyond.