Watson & Sanders: Browns' QB battle heats up

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken has not yet named a starting quarterback, leaving Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders to vie for the QB1 role. This competition is set to continue through the summer, drawing commentary from NFL insider Albert Breer.

Breer highlighted that player-organized offseason passing camps, typically embraced by franchise quarterbacks for skill refinement and team chemistry, become more complex with an unsettled QB competition. He suggested that if such a situation causes internal division, it indicates deeper team issues. Breer also indicated that typically the more veteran or presumed starter would lead such initiatives.

Despite the competition's complexities, the Browns' front office appears unconcerned, with Watson and Sanders splitting first-team reps during spring practices. Watson is under a significant guaranteed contract and is striving to re-establish himself as the starter, though his tenure has been marked by injuries and limited success since the start of the 2024 season. He recently showcased intense offseason workouts.

Sanders, who finished last season as Cleveland's starter with a 3-4 record, has kept the competition fierce throughout OTAs. While Watson may hold a slight edge, Sanders remains a strong contender for the starting quarterback position.