Browns Keep QB Competition Open Ahead of Preseason

Cleveland head coach Todd Monken confirmed that the quarterback battle remains unsettled after the team altered Saturday’s practice plan. Although the Browns had indicated that freshman Shedeur Sanders would receive first-team reps, the coaching staff instead gave veteran Deshaun Watson those reps to balance the total number of snaps. Monken stressed that the change does not signal a decision; the starter for the first preseason game has not been chosen, and both quarterbacks are slated to start one of the first two games this month.

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He emphasized that the competition hinges on the amount of shared reps each quarterback receives. Looking ahead, Monken said the upcoming joint practice with the Buffalo Bills will provide additional competitive snaps, helping the staff narrow the field. He added that after the first two preseason games, the Browns will have a clearer picture of who will lead the offense in Week 1.

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The shift in reps was intended to give both quarterbacks comparable exposure to the first-team offense. The Browns’ first preseason game is scheduled for the upcoming Saturday, followed by a second game later in the month. A joint practice with the Bills is planned for the following week, offering further evaluation opportunities before the regular season begins.

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• “As long as we’re still sharing reps, it’s a competition,” — Todd Monken, head coach

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• “After those two games, we’ll be closer to at least having a better idea,” — Todd Monken, head coach

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