Browns Eyeing Young QB as Shedeur Sanders Alternative

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The Cleveland Browns made several moves to bolster their offensive line during the first wave of NFL free agency, but they did not add any new quarterbacks to the roster. This means second-year QB Shedeur Sanders will likely compete with Deshaun Watson for the starting job, with the Browns potentially looking to the upcoming draft or trade market to find a young alternative at the position.

Why it matters

The Browns have been searching for stability at quarterback since the retirement of Baker Mayfield, and their failure to address the position in free agency raises questions about their long-term plans at the most important position on the field. Finding the right young QB to develop behind or potentially replace Deshaun Watson is crucial for the franchise's future success.

The details

The Browns made several high-profile offensive line additions in free agency, including signing guard Wyatt Davis and tackle Kelvin Beachum. However, they did not bring in any new quarterbacks to compete with Shedeur Sanders, who is entering his second season, and Deshaun Watson, who is coming off a strong year but has faced legal issues. The Browns may now look to the upcoming NFL Draft or trade market to find a young quarterback they can develop as an alternative to Sanders and Watson.

• The first wave of NFL free agency passed in March 2026.

What’s next

The Browns will likely look to the 2026 NFL Draft or trade market to find a young quarterback they can develop as an alternative to Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson.