Cleveland Browns' Quarterback Competition: Shedeur Sanders vs. Ty Simpson

Shedeur Sanders, who finished the 2025 NFL season as the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback, faces an uncertain future heading into the 2026 season. After starting the final seven games of his rookie year, Sanders recorded a 3-4 record, completing 56.6% of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and ten interceptions. Despite these struggles, he earned a Pro Bowl nod, a decision that sparked debate regarding the award's voting process. With the Browns eyeing potential first-round quarterback Ty Simpson in the upcoming NFL Draft, the competition for the starting role is intensifying.

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Analysts suggest that the Browns may consider selecting Ty Simpson, a quarterback from Alabama, who is projected to be a top pick in the draft. Mel Kiper Jr., a prominent NFL draft analyst, has publicly advised against this move, asserting that the Browns already have a better quarterback in Sanders. Kiper emphasized, “The Browns don’t have to worry about Ty Simpson. They got a better quarterback than Ty Simpson in Shedeur Sanders. Don’t go there.” This sentiment reflects a belief in Sanders' potential despite his rocky rookie season.

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Browns head coach Todd Monken has declared an "open competition" for the starting quarterback position, indicating that both Sanders and veteran Deshaun Watson will vie for the role. Monken praised Sanders' "elite playmaking ability," suggesting that the new offensive system may better suit Sanders' skills compared to the previous regime. General manager Andrew Berry has also expressed the need for Sanders to demonstrate growth, particularly in efficiency and ball protection.

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Despite Kiper's support, skepticism remains regarding Sanders' ability to secure the starting job long-term. Critics point to his performance metrics, which ranked him among the lowest in the league. Former Browns receiver Jarvis Landry noted that the team did not adequately set Sanders up for success last season, citing issues with offensive line protection and decision-making influenced by analytics. Additionally, former Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger expressed caution, stating, “I don’t like to judge quarterbacks within the first three years... Give me a little more time down the road.”

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As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Browns hold two first-round picks, including the 24th overall selection, which could be used to draft Simpson if they choose to pursue a new quarterback. Meanwhile, Sanders must prove himself in the upcoming season to solidify his position as the franchise quarterback. The competition among Sanders, Watson, and potentially Simpson will shape the Browns' quarterback landscape for the foreseeable future.

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• “The Browns don’t have to worry about Ty Simpson. They got a better quarterback than Ty Simpson in Shedeur Sanders. Don’t go there.” — Mel Kiper Jr., NFL Draft Analyst

NFL analyst advises Browns to not pick Ty Simpson claiming Shedeur Sanders is better

• “I think Shedeur [Sanders] has the talent. I think he’s a baller. He can really get his guys involved. It’s really just more of putting the pieces together in a way that they play to his strengths,” — Jarvis Landry, Former Browns Receiver

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• “I don’t mean that saying it harshly, but I don’t think there’s enough on film over the last couple years one way or the other to say, boy, we have our starter at quarterback yet.” — Todd Monken, Head Coach

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The Browns' quarterback situation remains fluid, with Sanders needing to demonstrate significant improvement to retain his starting role amidst growing competition.

Browns Could Add First-Round Competition For Shedeur Sanders