Browns QB Battle: Shedeur Sanders vs. Deshaun Watson

Rumor has it one QB leads the competition early on

Mar. 29, 2026 at 1:22pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Despite Deshaun Watson's struggles and lengthy absences in recent years, the Cleveland Browns are reportedly considering him as the leading candidate to be their starting quarterback in 2026, with rookie Shedeur Sanders also in the mix. New head coach Todd Monken has said the job is wide open, and the team is trying to keep Watson engaged while also pushing Sanders to work hard this offseason.

Why it matters

The Browns' quarterback situation has been in flux for years, with Watson's tumultuous tenure and the team's desire to develop young talent like Sanders. This competition will be closely watched as the Browns look to stabilize the position and return to contention in the AFC.

The details

According to reports, Watson is currently leading the quarterback competition over Sanders, despite Watson's poor performance and lengthy absences in recent seasons. The Browns' coaching staff is basing this on Watson's prior success with the Houston Texans, as well as his athleticism, which new head coach Todd Monken has said is vital for the modern NFL quarterback. The team also wants to keep Watson engaged and believes he has the highest upside in the quarterback room, even though Sanders is a promising young prospect.

  • In late December 2025, reports emerged that Watson would return in 2026 and be part of a QB competition.
  • At the 2026 NFL Combine in February, Monken and GM Andrew Berry said the starting QB job was wide open.

The players

Deshaun Watson

The Browns' quarterback who has struggled with injuries and poor play in recent seasons, but is reportedly the early leader in the team's QB competition.

Shedeur Sanders

A rookie quarterback prospect who is competing with Watson for the Browns' starting job.

Todd Monken

The Browns' new head coach, who has said the team's starting QB job is wide open.

Andrew Berry

The Browns' general manager, who has also stated the QB job is up for grabs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Trying to make it make sense comes down to a few factors: Coaches are not seeing anyone practicing on the field, so they are basing things on their former opinions Watson was very good with the Houston Texans… six years ago”

— Mike Garafolo, NFL Network Reporter

What’s next

The Browns will continue to evaluate Watson and Sanders during offseason activities, with the goal of having a starting quarterback in place by the start of training camp.

The takeaway

The Browns' quarterback competition highlights the team's ongoing struggles to find stability at the position. While Watson has the higher upside, his lengthy absences and poor recent play make him a risky choice. The development of Sanders will be crucial as the Browns look to return to contention in the AFC.