Watson, Sanders Vie for Browns QB Crown

The Cleveland Browns are elevating their preseason with a direct quarterback competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. Head coach Todd Monken announced that Watson will start the team's preseason opener on Saturday in Chicago against the Bears. Following this, Sanders is slated to start the second preseason game at home against the Buffalo Bills on August 22.

Both Watson and Sanders are anticipated to play roughly a half during their respective starting assignments. This approach underscores the team's commitment to evaluating the quarterback position, with Watson and Sanders alternating days with the first-team offense during training camp. This move gives the public a chance to assess the competition firsthand.

Watson's start is particularly noteworthy as it marks his return to game action after rupturing his Achilles in October 2025, followed by a second surgery. Despite his past accolades, including leading the NFL in passing yards in 2020, his current ability as a competent NFL quarterback is the primary focus. Sanders, the 24-year-old second-year quarterback drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, enters the competition with recent game tape, having appeared in eight games and started seven as a rookie, showcasing flashes of promise alongside expected youthful mistakes.

This preseason setup avoids the typical exhibition game doldrums by creating genuine stakes. The outcomes of these games, while not determining season-long success, will provide meaningful insights into Watson's recovery and Sanders' development. The competition is viewed as a true battle for the starting gig, with the Browns having a third preseason game against New England on August 27 for further evaluation.