Watson Wins Quarterback Competition
The Cleveland Browns have made their decision at quarterback, naming Deshaun Watson the team’s starter for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season. Head coach Todd Monken announced Monday that Watson will lead the Browns when they travel to face the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sept. 13.
Watson won the competition over second year quarterback Shedeur Sanders after the two split first team reps throughout the offseason, training camp and preseason. Monken said the decision was based on the full body of work rather than one particular performance.
“Deshaun gave us the best chance to move the ball and score points,” Monken said.
A Comeback Opportunity
The decision represents another major step in Watson’s attempt to return to his previous form. Watson missed the entire 2025 season after suffering an Achilles injury and has appeared in only 19 games for Cleveland since joining the team in 2022.
During the first two preseason games this year, Watson completed 16 of 27 passes for 162 yards, with no touchdowns and one interception. Sanders completed 15 of 22 passes for 153 yards, throwing one touchdown and two interceptions.
Watson’s most recent performance came in Saturday’s 31-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills. He played the second half and faced heavy criticism from Browns fans at Huntington Bank Field.
Pressure Builds Ahead of Week 1
Watson’s selection comes with plenty of pressure. Cleveland invested heavily in the veteran quarterback, and the Browns are hoping he can finally provide the consistency they expected when they acquired him.
Watson acknowledged Monday that becoming the starter comes with significant expectations. He said he has been working for two years to prove he can still be a starting quarterback in the NFL.
Meanwhile, Sanders will begin the season as Watson’s backup. Monken praised the young quarterback’s progress but said the decision is not expected to be a week-to-week situation.
For Watson, the opportunity is clear: prove he can stay healthy, regain his confidence and lead Cleveland’s offense. His first chance comes Sept. 13 against Jacksonville, when the Browns officially begin a new chapter with Watson back under center.
