Story perspectives

Browns Keep QB Battle Open: Sanders vs. Watson

6/19/2026

Summary

Sanders vs Watson

Browns left the quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders and veteran Deshaun Watson open for training camp.
General manager Andrew Berry called Sanders a “work in progress” after his 2025 season, while coach Todd Monken noted footwork improvements that extended the QB1 battle.
In 2025 Sanders threw seven touchdowns, ten interceptions in eight games, posted a 3-4 record, and had the fastest 3.24-second release, leading to 14 pressures and three sacks.

Summary

Browns Trade Garrett

The Browns traded Myles Garrett to the Rams for end Jared Verse and 2027-2029 first-, second-, and third-round picks.
General manager Andrew Berry said the picks could fund a quarterback if Sanders and Watson do not solve position, noting Watson’s $230 million year after two Achilles surgeries.
Deion Sanders approved the trade, with the Browns’ front office and coaches describing the assets as a cornerstone that adds flexibility beyond quarterback needs.

History

Historical Context

In the 2004 draft, the Chargers held the first overall pick after a 4–12 season and selected Eli Manning, who had refused to play for them. The Giants traded the fourth-overall pick (Philip Rivers) plus the Chargers’ 2005 first-round and fifth-round picks for Manning’s rights, a deal valued at about $30 million in draft capital. Cleveland now mirrors that strategy, trading picks for quarterback options.

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Sanders vs Watson

Browns left the quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders and veteran Deshaun Watson open for training camp.
General manager Andrew Berry called Sanders a “work in progress” after his 2025 season, while coach Todd Monken noted footwork improvements that extended the QB1 battle.
In 2025 Sanders threw seven touchdowns, ten interceptions in eight games, posted a 3-4 record, and had the fastest 3.24-second release, leading to 14 pressures and three sacks.

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