Cleveland Browns Quarterback Situation Update

Shedeur Sanders is stepping into the spotlight as the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback. This marks his first game back on the field in over a year after the team signed him with a hefty $230 million contract.

Deshaun Watson’s return has been postponed not once, but twice, due to Achilles tendon tears—one in October and another in January of this year. The Browns have now granted Watson 21 days to get back on the field, just as Sanders prepares for only his third start in the NFL.

Coach Kevin Stefanski expressed optimism about Watson’s rehabilitation, stating, “He’s been working hard. It’s great for him to practice with teammates and tackle that individual challenge.” The focus now shifts to activating this practice period, allowing Watson to engage with the team during workouts and personal training sessions. “He’s been very cooperative,” Stefanski added, highlighting Watson’s engagement during team meetings.

Currently, Watson’s record as a starter sits at 9-10, showing 19 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, along with a passer rating of 80.7. To add to the pressure, fans remain frustrated with the Browns after they traded five draft picks, including three first-rounders, to acquire Watson on what many call one of the league’s most unfavorable contracts.

If Watson can’t come off injured reserve soon, he risks missing the entire season. Co-owner Jimmy Haslam remarked at a league meeting earlier this year that the team “swung big and missed,” emphasizing the need to recover from their trade decisions.

The Browns have adjusted Watson’s contract twice over the offseason to bring some financial relief. Watson is under contract until the end of the 2026 season, while Dillon Gabriel serves as Sanders’ backup. Sanders missed the Week 11 game due to Gabriel’s concussion. However, following Gabriel’s clearance, Sanders retained his starting position after showcasing promising performance.