Browns Linked to Surprising QB Move With Shedeur Sanders Implications

Cleveland could pursue Packers' Malik Willis in free agency, which would impact second-year QB Shedeur Sanders.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 6:15pm

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The Cleveland Browns are facing decisions at quarterback this offseason, including whether to stick with second-year player Shedeur Sanders or pursue other options. One surprising possibility is the team signing Green Bay Packers free agent Malik Willis, who has impressed in limited action. This would create a competition between Willis and Sanders for the starting job.

Why it matters

The Browns' quarterback situation is a key question heading into the offseason, as they look to build around a young roster and determine if Sanders is their long-term answer under center. Bringing in a veteran like Willis could provide competition and push Sanders to develop, but it would also create uncertainty about the team's future plans at the position.

The details

Former NFL player and analyst Ross Tucker suggested the Browns could pursue Willis in free agency to compete with Sanders for the starting job. In 2025, Willis played in four games for the Packers, completing 30-of-35 passes for 422 yards, 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions, while also rushing for 123 yards and 2 scores. In his lone start, he threw for 288 yards, 1 TD and 0 INTs, while rushing for 60 yards and 2 TDs.

  • In the 2025 NFL season, Malik Willis played in four games for the Green Bay Packers.
  • Late in the 2025 season, Willis made one start for the Packers against the Baltimore Ravens.

The players

Shedeur Sanders

The Cleveland Browns' second-year quarterback who had flashes of potential as a rookie but is far from a sure thing as the team's long-term answer at the position.

Malik Willis

The Green Bay Packers' impending free agent quarterback who has impressed in limited action, leading to speculation he could be a target for the Browns this offseason.

Todd Monken

The new head coach of the Cleveland Browns, who will be tasked with evaluating the team's quarterback situation and determining the best path forward.

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What they’re saying

“The real question is do they bring in another outside veteran quarterback or is Deshaun Watson that guy? I kind of like the idea of Malik Willis in Todd Monken's offense.”

— Ross Tucker, Former NFL player and analyst

What’s next

The Browns will need to decide in the coming months whether to pursue a veteran quarterback like Malik Willis in free agency, or stick with Shedeur Sanders as their starter heading into the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Browns' quarterback situation is a critical offseason question, as they look to build around a young roster and determine if Shedeur Sanders is their long-term answer. Bringing in a veteran like Malik Willis could create competition and push Sanders to develop, but it would also create uncertainty about the team's future plans at the position.