Browns Face Pivotal Draft Decisions After QB Battle

Team must address key roster holes as NFL Draft approaches

Apr. 3, 2026 at 1:41pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players and NFL Draft imagery, conveying the complex decisions facing the Cleveland Browns this offseason.The Browns' offseason decisions at quarterback and in the draft will shape the team's future direction.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Browns are facing a critical offseason as they look to address their quarterback situation and several other pressing roster needs ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft. The team's starting QB job remains up for grabs after a competitive battle last season, and the Browns' front office must now make important decisions that will shape the franchise's future.

Why it matters

The Browns have been searching for stability at quarterback for years, and the outcome of this offseason's QB competition could determine the team's direction for the next several seasons. Additionally, Cleveland has holes to fill at multiple positions, and how they approach the draft will be crucial in determining whether the team can take the next step and become a legitimate contender in the AFC.

The details

The Browns' quarterback battle is the main storyline heading into the offseason, with Deshaun Watson and Jacoby Brissett both vying for the starting job. Watson, acquired in a blockbuster trade last year, is looking to bounce back after missing the entire 2022 season due to suspension. Brissett filled in admirably as the starter, but the team may view him as more of a backup option long-term. Whichever QB emerges victorious will have a major impact on Cleveland's plans for the draft.

  • The Browns' quarterback competition will continue throughout the offseason and into training camp.
  • The 2023 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 25-27 in Kansas City, Missouri.

The players

Deshaun Watson

Quarterback for the Cleveland Browns who is looking to reclaim his starting job after missing the 2022 season due to suspension.

Jacoby Brissett

Quarterback for the Cleveland Browns who started in place of Deshaun Watson last season and is competing to be the team's starting QB in 2023.

Cleveland Browns

NFL franchise based in Cleveland, Ohio that is looking to build a contending roster through the upcoming draft.

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What they’re saying

“We have to make the most of this offseason and the draft to put ourselves in the best position to succeed next year.”

— Andrew Berry, General Manager, Cleveland Browns

“The quarterback competition is going to be a big focus, but we also need to address some other key areas of the roster through the draft.”

— Kevin Stefanski, Head Coach, Cleveland Browns

What’s next

The Browns will continue to evaluate their quarterback options throughout the offseason, with a decision on the starter expected to be made prior to the start of training camp. The team will also turn its attention to the NFL Draft, where they will look to address needs at positions such as wide receiver, defensive back, and offensive line.

The takeaway

The Cleveland Browns face a critical offseason as they look to solidify their quarterback situation and build a roster capable of contending in the AFC. How they approach the upcoming NFL Draft will be pivotal in determining the team's direction for the next several years.