Story perspectives

Watson Beats Sanders, Secures Browns Starting QB Role

4/30/2026

Summary

Watson Becomes Starter

Deshaun Watson has taken the lead over rookie Shedeur Sanders to become the Browns’ starter.
Todd Monken will decide the starter by the end of the Browns’ minicamp June 9-11.
JW Johnson said Watson looks great, is healthy and posted a 63.4% completion rate, 1,148 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions in 2024.
Sanders recorded a 56.6% completion rate, seven touchdowns, ten interceptions and a 68.1 passer rating in his two starts.

Summary

Watson Fresh Start

Deshaun Watson signed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract in 2022, the largest quarterback deal at that time.
Browns owner Jimmy Haslam said Watson has a chance at a fresh start under head coach Todd Monken’s spread-concept offense that mirrors his successful Texans scheme.
Watson faces lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct and missed 2021, served an 11-game suspension in 2022, underwent shoulder surgery in 2023, and re-tore an Achilles injury in 2024.

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Watson Becomes Starter

Deshaun Watson has taken the lead over rookie Shedeur Sanders to become the Browns’ starter.
Todd Monken will decide the starter by the end of the Browns’ minicamp June 9-11.
JW Johnson said Watson looks great, is healthy and posted a 63.4% completion rate, 1,148 yards, five touchdowns and three interceptions in 2024.
Sanders recorded a 56.6% completion rate, seven touchdowns, ten interceptions and a 68.1 passer rating in his two starts.

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