The Cleveland Browns' quarterback competition just got a whole lot more interesting. What was once seen as a forgone conclusion—Deshaun Watson taking the reins as QB1—is now being seriously challenged by second-year signal-caller Shedeur Sanders. According to insiders, the team's confidence in Watson might be wavering as Sanders continues to impress.
Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, who earlier this offseason reported that Watson had the inside track for the starting job, now says the tide is turning. During an appearance on 92.3 The Fan, Cabot described a palpable shift in the energy surrounding the team's OTA practices. She noted that Sanders has been so exceptional in recent weeks that the coaching staff, led by Todd Monken, is beginning to reconsider their initial plans.
“I think Shedeur has come on so strong in the last few weeks that it’s making them think maybe we should see what he can do in training camp before we decide that perhaps Deshaun Watson is QB1,” Cabot said. This comment marks a significant departure from her earlier stance that the Browns should name Watson the starter immediately to let the offense build chemistry.
During the team's eighth OTA practice, Sanders took the reins of the first-team offense for virtually every competitive drill. The energy around him was unmistakable. “I felt there was a paradigm shift today in this whole thing I did,” Cabot added. “It just felt like things were different today.”
Sanders, a seventh-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, completed 56.6% of his passes as a rookie, totaling 1,400 yards with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. While those numbers don't scream superstar, his recent performances suggest a player who is rapidly developing. Meanwhile, Watson, a three-time Pro Bowler, has appeared in just 19 games since 2022, throwing for 3,365 yards and 19 touchdowns. His tenure has been marred by injury and inconsistency, leaving the door open for a challenger.
The Browns' quarterback dilemma is just one of several storylines swirling around the team. The organization has been active in reshaping its roster, including a blockbuster trade sending Myles Garrett to the Rams. That deal brought in rookie Jared Verse, who has already made waves by staking a claim to jersey number 8. The Browns' front office has also made headlines by shutting down speculation about future quarterback plans, emphasizing that the focus remains on the current roster.
For now, all eyes are on the battle between Watson and Sanders. The former has the experience and the contract, but the latter has the momentum and the confidence of a player who believes he belongs. With training camp on the horizon, the Browns face a decision that could define their season. Will they stick with the high-priced veteran, or roll the dice on the young upstart who is making a compelling case for the job?
Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: the quarterback competition in Cleveland is far from settled.
