Watson to start for Browns
Todd Monken, head coach of the Cleveland Browns, has named Deshaun Watson as the starting quarterback for the upcoming regular season opener. The team is scheduled to play on the road against the Jaguars on September 13. This decision concludes the quarterback competition that took place during the offseason and training camp.
Monken stated that the evaluation considered the entire body of work from the offseason, training camp, games, and joint practices. He ultimately felt that Watson provided the best opportunity for the team to move the ball and score points to begin the season on the road. The coach indicated that this decision is not expected to be a week-to-week evaluation.
Watson’s return to the starting role follows his recovery from Achilles injuries that caused him to miss the final ten games of the 2024 season and the entirety of the 2025 season. Monken met with both Watson and Shedeur Sanders, the second-year quarterback, on August 24 to discuss the decision, noting that the conversation with Sanders was positive.
Sanders understands long-term perspective
Shedeur Sanders, who will serve as the backup quarterback, was informed of the decision by Monken. Monken noted that Sanders understands the “long game” of his career development. The coach highlighted Sanders’ growth, stating that he has significantly closed the gap between himself and Watson.
Sanders had opportunities to make an impression during the preseason. In a loss to the Buffalo Bills on August 22, he completed 9 of 11 passes for 74 yards with an interception and an 87.1 passer rating over two quarters. He also played in the third quarter of the preseason opener against Chicago, completing 6 of 11 passes for 79 yards with an interception and a 39.6 passer rating.
Throughout the offseason and training camp, Sanders and Watson alternated days running the No. 1 offense. They also split reps during a joint practice against the Bills on August 20. Sanders was not available to the media after Monken’s announcement, but he had previously spoken about his mindset after the Buffalo game on August 22.
Sanders expressed that he does not live with regrets, stating that he does everything to his maximum effort. He emphasized his commitment to working hard to improve, regardless of his current situation. Monken acknowledged that as the regular season progresses, Watson will take most of the first-team practice reps, requiring Sanders to focus on individual work, film study, and mental preparation.
As a rookie in 2025, Sanders started the final seven games for the Browns. He completed 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, with seven touchdowns, 10 interceptions, a 68.1 passer rating, and 23 sacks. He was also added to the AFC Pro Bowl roster as an alternate. Sanders, a former fifth-round pick from the University of Colorado, began that offseason as the No. 4 quarterback on the depth chart before climbing to the No. 2 spot after Cleveland traded Joe Flacco to the Cincinnati Bengals in early October.
Watson addresses fan comments
Watson recently addressed comments he made after the team’s 31-7 preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills, where he was booed by the home crowd. On August 24, he stated that his emotions got the best of him and that his previous remarks were not intended to target any specific fans.
He acknowledged the frustration of Browns fans, considering the team’s investment in him and the contract extension he received. Watson expressed a desire to focus on football and deliver strong performances, particularly in the upcoming road games, to give fans something to celebrate when the team returns home for Week 3.
Watson’s arrival in Cleveland was accompanied by off-field concerns and, at times, inconsistent on-field play, including missed time due to injuries. He stated that his comments were a reflection of what was on his heart and that he takes full responsibility for them. Moving forward, he intends to concentrate on playing good football, believing that winning will address any lingering issues.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.