The NFL preseason typically struggles to captivate fans’ interest. While the return of football brings excitement, starters often play minimally, leaving lesser-known players to finish the games. However, the Cleveland Browns have sparked attention with their planned quarterback starts over the first two preseason games.
Quarterback Lineup Revealed
Head coach Todd Monken has announced that Deshaun Watson will lead the Browns in their preseason opener against the Chicago Bears. Following this, Shedeur Sanders will start the next game against the Buffalo Bills at home.
Monken intends for both Watson and Sanders to play approximately half of each game. This approach highlights the genuine competition for the starting quarterback position throughout the offseason.
Deshaun Watson’s Return
The significance of Watson’s start lies in his extended absence. Watson, who has not participated in an NFL game since rupturing his Achilles in October 2024, had to undergo a second surgery, sidelining him for an additional season. Evaluating Watson’s ability to execute Monken’s offense after nearly two years is crucial.
Once a top quarterback, Watson led the NFL in passing yards in 2020. However, his career faced challenges due to off-field issues, including civil lawsuits for alleged misconduct. These complexities made his trade to the Browns contentious.
Shedeur Sanders Takes the Stage
For Sanders, the preseason presents an opportunity to secure his role. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Sanders showed potential but faced the learning curve typical for rookie players. This preseason provides him a platform to display growth under new leadership.
While Sanders’ rookie season showcased talent, his performance also displayed room for improvement. His upcoming game against Buffalo will allow Cleveland fans and the coaching staff to gauge his development.
Determining the Starting Quarterback
Monken’s pre-season strategy includes providing both quarterbacks with significant game time. Despite the challenges, this genuine quarterback competition adds stakes to the preseason games. Watson’s and Sanders’ performances could significantly influence Monken’s decision on the starting role.
The Browns have an additional preseason game against New England, allowing further evaluation. With Watson facing Chicago and Sanders taking on Buffalo, the Browns’ quarterback competition becomes a focal point, promising an engaging preseason.
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