Browns QB Deshaun Watson Works Out With Top WRs Before OTAs

The QB competition in Cleveland is heating up as Watson trains with Jerry Jeudy, Isaiah Bond, and Jamari Thrash.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:35am

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Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson was spotted working out with some of the team's top wide receivers, including Jerry Jeudy, Isaiah Bond, and Jamari Thrash, ahead of the team's offseason program and organized team activities (OTAs). This comes as the Browns' quarterback competition heats up, with Shedeur Sanders also vying for the starting job under new head coach Todd Monken.

Why it matters

The Browns' quarterback situation is a major storyline heading into the 2026 season, with Watson, Sanders, and potentially another veteran or draft pick all in the mix. Watson's early work with the team's top receivers signals his determination to regain his starting role after missing the 2021 season.

The details

In a video posted online, Watson can be seen throwing passes and working on routes with Jeudy, Bond, and Thrash. This comes as Monken has indicated that Sanders has been a regular presence at the team's facilities in Berea, Ohio, suggesting both quarterbacks are putting in the work to be ready for the competition.

  • The Browns' offseason program opened up earlier this week.
  • OTAs are set to begin in the coming weeks.

The players

Deshaun Watson

The Browns' veteran quarterback who is looking to regain his starting role after missing the 2021 season.

Shedeur Sanders

The young quarterback who appears to have a slight edge in the Browns' QB competition based on recent comments from head coach Todd Monken.

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns, who will be overseeing the team's quarterback competition.

Jerry Jeudy

One of the Browns' top wide receivers, who was seen working out with Deshaun Watson.

Isaiah Bond

Another Browns wide receiver who participated in the offseason workout with Deshaun Watson.

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What they’re saying

“We really do not know, and that is okay, who Cleveland Browns HC Todd Monken plans or hopes will be the starting quarterback for the team heading into the 2026 offseason.”

— Jared Mueller, Author

What’s next

The Browns' quarterback competition will continue to be a major focus as the team progresses through its offseason program and OTAs. Fans and media will be closely watching to see how Watson, Sanders, and any other potential QB options perform.

The takeaway

The early work Deshaun Watson is putting in with the Browns' top receivers signals his determination to regain the starting QB job in Cleveland. However, with Shedeur Sanders also impressing the coaching staff, the competition remains wide open heading into the 2026 season.