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Browns QB Watson Takes First-Team Reps, Likely Starts Aug. 15

8/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Coach Todd Monken said Deshaun Watson took all first-team reps in the Aug. 8 practice, despite earlier indicating it would be Shedeur Sanders’s day.
A Browns spokesperson said the change was made because personnel groupings wanted to see Watson.
Monken said each quarterback will get a preseason start, with Watson likely to start the Aug. 15 game against the Chicago Bears and a decision due by Aug. 12.

History

Historical Context

The Browns' 2024 preseason decision between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders echoes the New York Jets' 1999 quarterback battle, when veteran Vinny Testaverde and rookie Chad Pennington vied for the start. Coach Bill Belichick’s preseason evaluation highlighted Pennington’s 61 % completion rate and 2,000 yards, a split that helped New York finish 8-8 and launch Pennington’s career.

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Story summary

Coach Todd Monken said Deshaun Watson took all first-team reps in the Aug. 8 practice, despite earlier indicating it would be Shedeur Sanders’s day.
A Browns spokesperson said the change was made because personnel groupings wanted to see Watson.
Monken said each quarterback will get a preseason start, with Watson likely to start the Aug. 15 game against the Chicago Bears and a decision due by Aug. 12.

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