Browns QB Battle: Sanders vs. Watson? GM Says Decision Isn't Rushing

Cleveland's quarterback competition remains open as the team evaluates Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson's fit in the offense.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 6:07am

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a football game or quarterback competition, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in the Browns' team colors of burnt orange and steel gray, conveying the complexity and multi-faceted nature of the team's quarterback decision.The Browns' quarterback battle between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson is a complex puzzle, with the team taking a patient approach to evaluating their options.Cleveland Today

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation is a hot topic, with fans and analysts eagerly awaiting the team's decision on who will start under center in 2026. The team has several options, including Shedeur Sanders, the son of legendary coach Dabo Sanders, and veteran Deshaun Watson, who is recovering from a torn Achilles. General Manager Andrew Berry emphasized that the team is not rushing the decision and is focused on fostering growth and development in both players.

Why it matters

The Browns' quarterback competition is a crucial storyline for the team as they look to build on their recent success and return to the playoffs. The decision on who will lead the offense could have significant implications for the team's future, and the team's unconventional approach to the position, including drafting multiple young quarterbacks, has added an extra layer of intrigue to the situation.

The details

The Browns have several options at quarterback, including Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson. Sanders has been with the team for a while, and his potential is undeniable, but his performance has been inconsistent. Watson, on the other hand, is a seasoned veteran with a proven track record, but he'll need to adapt to the team's new offense after recovering from a torn Achilles. The team is taking a patient approach, allowing both players to compete for the starting job without the pressure of an imminent decision.

  • The Browns' 2025 season is now in the rearview mirror.
  • The team will need to make a decision on their starting quarterback before the start of the 2026 season in September.

The players

Shedeur Sanders

The son of legendary coach Dabo Sanders, Shedeur has been a part of the Browns' roster for a while and has shown promise, but his performance has been inconsistent.

Deshaun Watson

A seasoned veteran quarterback with a proven track record, Watson is recovering from a torn Achilles and will need to adapt to the Browns' new offense.

Andrew Berry

The Cleveland Browns' General Manager, who has emphasized the team's patient approach to the quarterback competition and their willingness to explore all options.

Dillon Gabriel

A quarterback drafted by the Browns in the third round, indicating the team's unconventional approach to the position.

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What they’re saying

“We don't have to make that decision anytime soon.”

— Andrew Berry, General Manager

“I wouldn't put any restraint on it.”

— Andrew Berry, General Manager

What’s next

The Browns will continue to evaluate Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson throughout the offseason and preseason, with a decision on the starting quarterback expected before the start of the 2026 season in September.

The takeaway

The Browns' quarterback competition is a complex and intriguing situation, with the team taking a patient and unconventional approach to evaluating their options. The decision on who will lead the offense could have significant implications for the team's future, and fans will be closely watching to see how the competition unfolds.