Cleveland Browns’ Quarterback Situation for Upcoming Season
The Cleveland Browns head into the new season with a crowded quarterback situation. Last year, Shedur Sanders stepped in as the starting quarterback in Week 12 and continued to start for the rest of the season. Dillon Gabriel shifted to a backup role as Deshaun Watson remained on the physically unable to perform list during a practice period in December.
All three quarterbacks—Sanders, Gabriel, and Watson—are expected back in 2026. However, it’s uncertain who will take the lead when the regular season kicks off this fall. Head coach Todd Monken mentioned in an interview with Cleveland radio that it’s too soon to name a starter and emphasized the importance of keeping the competition open.
“It’s my job to make that happen,” Monken explained.
His comments reflect an ongoing belief in allowing players to prove their worth as the competition unfolds. This also comes in light of reports suggesting Watson might have an edge for the starting position, although Shiloh Sanders publicly expressed support for his brother Shedur.
Monken, who joined the team in January, plans to implement a new offensive strategy in Cleveland. He expressed a preference for having a single, clear starting quarterback instead of a rotation.
Just before the 2026 NFL Draft, the Browns held a three-day voluntary minicamp. During a practice open to media, Watson took the lead in quarterback drills, but Monken affirmed that Sanders would receive more practice reps overall.
“I can’t say there’s a leader right now because we haven’t seen enough,” Monken added. “We’ve only been on the field for three days.”
Looking ahead, the Browns will start their organized team activities (OTAs) in mid-May, followed by a mandatory minicamp next month. Their offseason program will conclude before they gear up for training camp in July.
Additionally, the Browns drafted Taylen Green in the sixth round last week. General manager Andrew Berry had previously indicated that there’s no pressure to rush a decision on the starting quarterback.
“We don’t need to make that choice immediately,” Berry stated. “I believe every player in that room will be competing for a role.”
The Browns finished last season with a record of 5-12.
