Shedeur Sanders Aims to Secure Browns' Starting QB Role

Young QB faces uncertain future with coaching changes and QB competition in Cleveland

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:37am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a quarterback's throwing motion, with sharp, overlapping planes in the official colors of the Cleveland Browns team, conveying the complex and uncertain nature of the team's quarterback position.A cubist interpretation of a quarterback's throwing motion captures the complexity and uncertainty surrounding the Browns' quarterback situation.Cleveland Today

Shedeur Sanders, the young quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, is hoping to cement his status as the team's starting QB for the 2026 season. However, with the recent firing of head coach Kevin Stefanski and the presence of veteran Deshaun Watson on the roster, Sanders' future is far from certain. Sanders remains confident in his abilities but acknowledges that the final decision lies with the team's management.

Why it matters

The Browns' quarterback situation is a key storyline heading into the offseason, as the team looks to solidify its leadership at the most important position on the field. Sanders' development and potential to be the long-term answer at QB will be closely watched, especially with the team's willingness to explore the quarterback market.

The details

In his seven-game showcase last season, Sanders led the Browns to a 3-4 record, completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. While these numbers show promise, the team's new leadership, including General Manager Andrew Berry, has emphasized the need for excellence at the quarterback position, suggesting that Sanders' status as the starter is not guaranteed.

  • Sanders made 7 starts for the Browns in the 2025 season.
  • The Browns fired head coach Kevin Stefanski after the 2025 season.
  • The Browns will explore the quarterback market during the 2026 offseason.

The players

Shedeur Sanders

The young quarterback for the Cleveland Browns who is hoping to secure the starting role for the 2026 season.

Deshaun Watson

The veteran quarterback currently on the Browns' roster, whose presence creates competition for the starting job.

Andrew Berry

The General Manager of the Cleveland Browns, who has emphasized the need for excellence at the quarterback position.

Kevin Stefanski

The former head coach of the Cleveland Browns, who was fired after the 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“I believe I've shown what I'm capable of, and I've grown immensely from my experiences. I now have the benefit of valuable game time. My confidence remains unwavering, but ultimately, it's not my decision to make. I can't speak to the feelings and perceptions of others.”

— Shedeur Sanders, Cleveland Browns Quarterback

“We will actively explore the quarterback market during the offseason. The quarterback position is critical, and we won't settle for anything less than excellence.”

— Andrew Berry, Cleveland Browns General Manager

What’s next

The Browns will make a decision on their starting quarterback for the 2026 season during the offseason, with Sanders and Watson competing for the role.

The takeaway

Shedeur Sanders' future as the Browns' starting quarterback is uncertain, as the team's new leadership emphasizes the need for excellence at the position. Sanders' performance and the team's exploration of the quarterback market will determine whether he secures the starting role or faces competition from veteran Deshaun Watson.