Browns’ Quarterback Competition Heats Up in Preseason

The NFL preseason often struggles to capture fans’ interest. While the return of football brings excitement, the games typically feature brief appearances by starters followed by players who may not make the final rosters. However, the Cleveland Browns have introduced elements that may make their first two preseason games worth watching.

Deshaun Watson’s and Shedeur Sanders’ Preseason Starts

Head coach Todd Monken announced to the quarterbacks that Deshaun Watson will start in the Browns’ preseason opener against the Chicago Bears. In the following game against the Buffalo Bills, Shedeur Sanders will take the helm. This strategy turns preseason games into a showcase for one of the team’s most intriguing quarterback battles.

Monken plans for both Watson and Sanders to play one half against the Bears and then switch roles for the game against the Bills. This approach signifies Cleveland’s commitment to a genuine competition for the quarterback position, supported by the structured practice regimens led by Monken. Watson and Sanders have had balanced opportunities with the first-team offense, carrying forward from their spring training.

Implications for Deshaun Watson

Deshaun Watson faces significant scrutiny as he returns to the field, having been absent from NFL play since his Achilles injury in October 2024. Watson’s recovery included surgery, and he missed the entire last season. His performance in these preseason games will be closely observed to assess his ability to fit into Monken’s offense and evaluate if he still possesses starter capabilities after a lengthy hiatus.

Watson previously led the league in passing yards in 2020 and missed the 2021 season amid trade requests and allegations of misconduct. These factors add layers of complexity to his tenure with the Browns, who traded for him despite controversies. Watson’s 30-year age marks him as a seasoned player, but Cleveland needs reassurances of his reliability.

Spotlight on Shedeur Sanders

Shedeur Sanders enters the preseason with a distinct profile, having been selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. His rookie year featured appearances in eight games with seven starts, delivering mixed results. Sanders threw for 1,400 yards, achieving seven touchdowns against ten interceptions. Despite some highlights, his performance revealed the typical learning curve of a young quarterback adjusting to the NFL.

Unlike Watson, Sanders comes with substantial expectations and has had recent game experience. His position as an incumbent brings a mixture of pressure and opportunity as he competes under a new head coach keen to explore his potential.

True Competition and Stakes

Monken’s decision to alternate starters between Watson and Sanders underscores the seriousness of this competition. It gives the August games real stakes, which contrasts typical preseason fare, often devoid of concrete implications.

Neither game will likely determine the regular season starter, but each performance will influence evaluations and offer insights into readiness. Watson will seek to demonstrate sharpness and mobility, crucial after his injury layoff, while Sanders will aim for consistency and decision-making improvements.

Ultimately, Monken aims to keep options open with another preseason game against New England on the horizon. While Gabriel remains an understudy in this dynamic, there’s potential for him to spotlight his capability in future matches, adding another layer to an already fascinating preseason narrative.