Cleveland Browns Looking at QB Competition for Next Season

The Cleveland Browns started last season with a notably crowded quarterback situation. Sheduar Sanders stepped in as the starting QB during Week 12 of the season, making a couple more starts before being named the main starter for the rest of the year. As the team commenced a 21-day practice window in December, Dillon Gabriel was relegated to a backup position since Deshaun Watson remained on the physically unable to perform list. Watson is still on the mend from a recent Achilles injury.

During the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis on Tuesday, Browns general manager Andrew Berry indicated that Watson could potentially be in competition with Sanders for the starting quarterback position next season.

Berry emphasized the importance of not rushing into a decision concerning the starting quarterback. “There’s no need to make that decision right away,” he stated. “Every player in that room is going to compete for a role, and those two are no exception.”

It’s possible that Gabriel might be included in the list of competitors for the starting job. However, Berry has hinted at the interest in possibly bringing in a more seasoned quarterback during the offseason. Last year, Sanders primarily worked with the second team throughout the Browns’ minicamp and training camp. He ended the 2025 season with a 3-4 record as a starter, but Berry is hopeful for his continued development.

Berry remarked, “The biggest thing we expect from Sheduar is continued growth. I think he’s improved a lot from starting one to starting seven. It’s crucial to play more efficiently and avoid unnecessary risks while still being able to create big plays.”

The Browns parted ways with Kevin Stefanski in January and welcomed Todd Monken, with Berry indicating he wants Sanders to become accustomed to the new system. He mentioned, “We won’t see the full picture over the next few months since we won’t be on the field. So learning the new offense, working with the coaching staff, focusing on his physical conditioning—all of that is essential before he actually gets back on the field.”

Watson has only played in 19 games across three years after signing a fully guaranteed $230 million contract with the Browns. He is reportedly set to earn $46 million next season, which means he will carry the largest salary cap hit in the league for 2026.

Berry confirmed that Watson is actively working on his rehabilitation. “Deshaun has been putting in a lot of effort,” he said. “We’re looking forward to having all our players ready by mid-April.”

Last season, the Browns finished with a disappointing 5-12 record.