The Cleveland Browns have made their decision at quarterback.
Deshaun Watson is being named the Browns’ starting quarterback for Week 1, beating out Shedeur Sanders for the job, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
The decision comes after Watson and Sanders spent training camp battling for the starting role, with both quarterbacks receiving significant first-team opportunities.
Sanders appeared to have gained momentum during the preseason. In Cleveland’s second preseason game against the Buffalo Bills, Sanders completed 9 of 11 passes for 74 yards, one touchdown and one interception. Watson entered later and struggled, completing just 5 of 12 passes for 36 yards with an interception in a 31-7 loss.
Despite Sanders’ efficient performance, Browns head coach Todd Monken ultimately opted for the veteran Watson.
The decision also comes amid significant controversy surrounding Watson following Saturday’s game. Browns fans loudly booed Watson during his first home appearance since suffering a torn Achilles in 2024. Watson subsequently criticized the reaction, calling the treatment from Cleveland fans disrespectful and suggesting he could feel more support on the road.
Monken insisted Watson’s postgame comments would not factor into the quarterback decision.
Instead, the Browns’ first-year head coach said the decision would be based on the quarterback who gives Cleveland the best chance to win.
Watson’s selection represents a major opportunity for the veteran quarterback, who has played only 19 games for Cleveland since arriving from Houston in 2022. His tenure has been disrupted by injuries, suspension and inconsistent production, including the Achilles injury that ended his 2024 season.
For Sanders, the decision represents a setback after he appeared to make a strong case for the job.
The former Colorado standout was a fifth-round pick and has now been passed over by the Browns despite showing improved efficiency during the preseason. Cleveland will instead enter the regular season with Watson as QB1 and Sanders waiting in the wings.
The Browns’ decision immediately puts Watson under the microscope.
With Cleveland opening the regular season against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sept. 13, Watson will have little margin for error. The Browns are betting that the veteran can rediscover enough of his previous form to stabilize a quarterback position that has remained one of the franchise’s biggest problems.
And if Watson struggles?
The pressure to turn to Sanders could arrive quickly.
