Story perspectives

Browns Keep QB Spot Open: Watson vs. Sanders

6/13/2026

Summary

Sanders Competes

In the United States, the Cleveland Browns left the starting quarterback spot open after minicamp, keeping veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson and rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders in competition.
Head coach Todd Monken said the winner will emerge from longer summer practices and preseason games.
General manager Andrew Berry called Sanders’ spring “excellent” and “phenomenal,” noting his improved footwork and quicker decisions.
Bajakian and Monken praised Sanders for better foot alignment and faster releases.
Watson was criticized for inconsistency and throwing into traffic during spring workouts.
Monken stated both quarterbacks have earned the right to keep competing once pads are on in July.

Summary

Sanders Cheered

Cleveland fans cheered rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders and booed veteran Deshaun Watson during recent practice sessions.
After Watson tore his Achilles in October 2024, some fans celebrated the injury, reflecting lingering resentment.
Reporter Mary Kay Cabot noted fans chanting for Sanders while Watson watched a Cavaliers playoff game, showing cross-sport support.
Head coach Todd Monken said public commentary will not affect lineup decisions, emphasizing performance over fan pressure.

History

Historical Context

After the Browns returned in 1999 as a reactivated franchise, they have posted a 101-234-1 record and cycled through 42 starting quarterbacks, never stabilizing at the position. Owner Jimmy Haslam’s tenure since 2012 has seen frequent coaching changes, and the current quarterback competition featuring veteran Deshaun Watson reflects the team’s decades-long quest for a franchise signal-caller.

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Sanders Competes

In the United States, the Cleveland Browns left the starting quarterback spot open after minicamp, keeping veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson and rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders in competition.
Head coach Todd Monken said the winner will emerge from longer summer practices and preseason games.
General manager Andrew Berry called Sanders’ spring “excellent” and “phenomenal,” noting his improved footwork and quicker decisions.
Bajakian and Monken praised Sanders for better foot alignment and faster releases.
Watson was criticized for inconsistency and throwing into traffic during spring workouts.
Monken stated both quarterbacks have earned the right to keep competing once pads are on in July.

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