The Cleveland Browns are currently navigating a highly competitive quarterback situation as they prepare for the 2026 season. The roster features veteran Deshaun Watson, who is entering the final year of his five-year, $230-million contract and is aiming to rebound from a tenure marked by injuries and inconsistent performances. Competing alongside him is Shedeur Sanders, a fifth-round pick from the previous year who earned a Pro Bowl selection after taking over the starting role in mid-November, despite the team finishing with a losing record.
While Watson and Sanders have dominated the media narrative, the quarterback room also includes Dillon Gabriel and Taylen Green. Former defensive tackle Breiden Fehoko recently suggested that the competition is far more open than public perception indicates. In a social media post shared on Sunday, Fehoko stated, "Don’t shoot the messenger. Word in the Cleveland Browns locker room is the best quarterback isn’t Deshaun or Shedeur right now."
Browns General Manager Andrew Berry has refrained from confirming a starter, opting instead to align with the approach of new head coach Todd Monken. Speaking to the NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Marc Ross on Saturday, Berry emphasized that the coaching staff is still in the early stages of evaluating the roster. He noted that the team is only three days into training camp and that the decision-making process will be performance-based. Berry confirmed that the organization intends to name a starter by Week 1 for the matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The game is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on CBS.
The Cleveland Browns have one of the most intense QB1 competitions heading into the 2026 season.On one side is Deshaun Watson, the floundering 2022 trade acquisition whose stint has been beset by injuries and poor play.
Word in the Cleveland Browns locker room is the best quarterback isn’t Deshaun or Shedeur right now……👀ALSO READ: "We got a really good defense": Deshaun Watson reveals not being worried about interceptions despite 3 INTs during Browns campALSO READ: “Dog practice is over”: Deshaun Watson’s QB coach makes feel
