The Cleveland Browns have named quarterback Deshaun Watson the starter for Week One of the 2026-27 NFL regular season, leaving Shedeur Sanders to potentially take the reins down the stretch.
The decision was made despite Sanders' strong showing in his start against the Buffalo Bills last Saturday. NFL insider Albert Breer stated that the choice came down to "the full body of work" during the offseason, with Watson being better and more consistent over time.
The Browns' quarterback battle was the primary question mark for the franchise throughout the offseason. Watson and Sanders were set to split first-team reps for most of training camp and the preseason, with the expectation that one would emerge as the starter.
Cleveland will begin the season on a two-game road stint against the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. If Watson struggles in his first two starts, there's a good chance that head coach Todd Monken and the organization could turn to Sanders for the team's home opener in Week Three against the Carolina Panthers.
Sanders, a 24-year-old second-year playmaker, has shown promise in his young career. He was smiling when informed that he would have to wait for his chance to start, according to Breer, and understood that he needed to play the long game.
The Browns' decision to go with Watson for Week One may be a sign of their confidence in the veteran quarterback. However, if Watson struggles, the door could be open for Sanders to take the reins and lead the team to victory.
Breer noted that it's easier to go from Watson to Sanders than the other way around, which could give the Browns an advantage if they need to make a change.
The Browns will face the Jaguars on the road in Week One, and the outcome of that game could have a significant impact on the team's decision-making process down the line.
Source: Yahoo Sports