Full Breakdown
Cleveland Browns Face Quarterback Competition Ahead of 2026 Season
2/27/2026, 5:08:31 AM
Current Quarterback Landscape
The Cleveland Browns are entering the 2026 NFL season with a competitive quarterback situation. Shedeur Sanders, who took over as the starting quarterback in Week 12 of the previous season, finished with a record of 3-4, accumulating 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and ten interceptions. The Browns also have Deshaun Watson, who is recovering from an Achilles injury, and Dillon Gabriel, who served as a backup last season. General Manager Andrew Berry has indicated that the team is open to competition for the starting role, stating, "We don't have to make that decision anytime soon," emphasizing that all quarterbacks on the roster will have the opportunity to compete.
Open Competition for QB1
Browns head coach Todd Monken confirmed that the quarterback position is an open competition, stating, "I don't know why it wouldn't be an open competition." Monken noted that there hasn't been enough performance evidence from the past seasons to designate a clear starter. The team aims to finalize their starting quarterback by training camp, allowing for ample evaluation during the offseason program starting in April.
Potential External Additions
The Browns are also exploring options outside their current roster. Reports suggest that they are considering quarterback prospects Ty Simpson and Malik Willis, indicating that the team may look to bolster their quarterback depth through the draft or free agency. Berry has stated he would not restrict adding to the quarterback position, highlighting the team's need for improvement after finishing with the second-fewest passing yards in the NFL last season.
Financial Considerations
Deshaun Watson's contract remains a significant factor in the Browns' decision-making. He is owed $46 million for the upcoming season and carries the largest salary cap hit in the league. Watson's performance will be under scrutiny as he aims to reclaim his status as a franchise quarterback after missing the entire 2025 season due to injury. Monken expressed optimism about Watson's potential return, stating, "We would love to tap back into that," referring to Watson's previous Pro Bowl caliber play.
Criticism and Outlook for Shedeur Sanders
Despite his promotion to starter, Sanders faces skepticism regarding his long-term viability as the team's quarterback. Analysts have pointed out that his performance, alongside Gabriel's, ranked low in quarterback ratings last season. The potential signing of Malik Willis has raised concerns about Sanders' future with the team, with some suggesting that acquiring Willis could lead to Sanders being released.
Conclusion
As the Browns prepare for the 2026 season, the quarterback competition remains fluid, with both internal candidates and external options being evaluated. The team's performance in the upcoming offseason will be critical in determining who will lead the offense when the season begins. With two first-round draft picks and a commitment to improving their quarterback situation, the Browns are poised for significant changes ahead.
