The Cleveland Browns have yet to decide on their starting quarterback for Week 1 as the 2026 NFL season approaches. At the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, general manager Andrew Berry indicated it remains too soon to name either Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders as the team’s QB1, with the organization also considering other possibilities.
Current State of the Browns’ Quarterback Situation
The Browns finished last in the AFC North last season, ending with a 5-12 record and a shaky quarterback lineup. The team relied on several players at the position, including veteran Joe Flacco, rookie Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders, the son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders. Meanwhile, Deshaun Watson, Cleveland’s $230 million signing, missed the entire year after re-injuring his Achilles tendon.
Watson’s contract carries a significant cap hit, expected to be $80.7 million in 2026, the final year of his five-year deal, casting questions over his future with the Browns. Sanders, meanwhile, was a fifth-round pick last year and took over as the starting quarterback in November. Over eight games, he threw for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, showing flashes but also inconsistency early in his career.
Challenges Surrounding Deshaun Watson’s Role
Watson’s tenure in Cleveland has faced difficulties both on and off the field. The quarterback struggled with injuries and uneven performances during his limited appearances. Additionally, his arrival was marked by controversy amid sexual misconduct allegations before signing a fully guaranteed deal with the Browns.
With a new coaching staff entering 2026 — Todd Monken replaces Kevin Stefanski as head coach after Stefanski’s dismissal — there is uncertainty about whether the team will turn to a new quarterback or maintain their current options.
Looking Beyond Current Roster: Potential New Quarterbacks
Sources report that Cleveland is examining talent beyond Watson and Sanders, including former Green Bay Packers backup Malik Williams and Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson. The Browns appear open to a competitive quarterback battle at training camp this summer as Andrew Berry enters his seventh year as the team’s general manager.
Berry has not dismissed the possibility of opening up the quarterback competition, indicating the team’s stance remains flexible heading into the offseason and preseason.
Implications for the Browns’ Offense Moving Forward
The quarterback decision will heavily influence the Browns’ prospects in 2026 and beyond, as the franchise aims to rebuild after a disappointing 2025 campaign. The outcome of the QB battle between Watson and Sanders, coupled with any new additions, will be instrumental in shaping the offensive identity under head coach Todd Monken.
Given the magnitude of Watson’s contract and Sanders’ promising yet unproven performance, the organization faces a complex dilemma going forward. The Browns’ path is uncertain but crucial, as securing stability at quarterback will be key to improving their standing in a competitive AFC North division.
“It’s too early to say who the starter is going to be, and we are also looking outside,”
Andrew Berry, Browns General Manager
“We want to have an open competition, and we are willing to see what happens at training camp,”
Andrew Berry, Browns General Manager
#Browns GM Andrew Berry said it’s too early to say if Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders will be the Week 1 starter. They’re also looking outside.
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) February 24, 2026
#Browns GM Andrew Berry isn’t opposed to heading into training camp with an open quarterback competition.
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) February 24, 2026
