The Cleveland Browns have designated veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson to start their initial preseason game on Saturday against the Chicago Bears. This decision comes as the team continues its evaluation of the quarterback position, with second-year player Shedeur Sanders slated to start the following week’s contest. Head coach Todd Monken confirmed the plan, emphasizing that the competition for the starting role remains open.
Quarterback Rotation Strategy
Coach Monken revealed that the strategy for the early preseason games involves giving both Watson and Sanders significant playing time. Watson is expected to lead the offense for the first half against the Bears, after which Sanders will take over for the second half. This rotation is intended to provide ample opportunity for both quarterbacks to demonstrate their capabilities in game conditions.
The plan extends to the second preseason game, where Sanders will earn the start against the Buffalo Bills. Monken indicated that a similar split in playing time would likely occur in that game as well, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of both signal-callers. The decision regarding the team’s Week 1 regular-season starter has not yet been finalized, making the Browns one of the last teams in the league to make this crucial determination.
Deshaun Watson’s Return
Deshaun Watson is making his return to game action after a significant layoff. He has not played since suffering a torn right Achilles tendon in October 2024, an injury that necessitated surgery and caused him to miss the entirety of the 2025 season. His preparation for the upcoming season has focused on a steady progression, aiming to regain form without rushing the recovery process.
“My job is to just keep trying to win the day, get better a little bit each time,” Watson stated, reflecting on his approach to his comeback. “Can’t rush anything. Just get out there and let the football things I’ve been doing my whole life take care of themselves.” His experience and past performance will be weighed heavily as the coaching staff evaluates his readiness.
Shedeur Sanders’ Development
Shedeur Sanders, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft despite earlier projections of being a first-round pick, emerged as a key player for the Browns last season. He earned the starting quarterback position midway through the year, climbing the depth chart from third string.
Sanders ultimately started over other contenders like Dillon Gabriel. In his eight appearances last season, he recorded a 3-5 record as a starter. His statistical output included 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and ten interceptions. His performance demonstrated resilience and potential, making him a strong candidate for future opportunities within the organization.
Preseason Goals and Player Evaluation
Coach Monken reiterated that the primary objective for the preseason is to evaluate the entire roster. He expects all healthy players to participate in the initial preseason game against the Bears, providing a comprehensive look at the team’s depth and talent across all positions.
The competition between Watson and Sanders is seen as a healthy dynamic that pushes both players to improve. The preseason games serve as a critical period for the coaching staff to gather the necessary information to make informed decisions about the starting lineup, particularly at the quarterback position. The extended evaluation period underscores the importance of finding the right fit to lead the team effectively throughout the regular season and beyond.
Looking Ahead
As the Browns navigate their preseason schedule, the focus remains on player development and identifying the optimal quarterback for the upcoming NFL season. The decisions made in these early games will shape the team’s trajectory. Both Watson, with his established NFL experience, and Sanders, with his promising development, have the opportunity to solidify their claims for the starting role in the coming weeks.
The team’s approach reflects a commitment to thorough evaluation, ensuring that the final decision on the starting quarterback is made with the best interests of the franchise in mind. The preseason games against the Bears and Bills will be crucial in this ongoing assessment.
