The Cleveland Browns have one of the more interesting quarterback situations in the NFL. While they could sign, trade, or draft a starter, they have a few internal options as well.
Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel could start, but after Shedeur Sanders showed some promise and made the Pro Bowl, he seems to be the favorite to start in 2026. But, he's not proven that he's the starter yet.
However, Browns GM Andrew Berry revealed to Mark Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com and reporters at the NFL Scouting Combine what exactly he wants to see from Sanders to prove he can be the Game 1 starter in 2026 for the Browns.
Browns GM reveals what Shedeur Sanders must do to start in 2026
"The biggest thing we want to see from Shedeur is continued growth," Berry said. "He learned a lot from start 1 to start 7. ... Playing more efficiently, not putting the ball in harm's way as much, meanwhile maintaining the ability to produce out of structure and generate explosive plays."
#Browns GM Andrew Berry on what Shedeur Sanders must show over the next few months to prove he can start from Day 1: pic.twitter.com/fX30qyXBCf
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) February 24, 2026
It's a few clear goals for Sanders, but it's a good benchmark for what the 2025 fifth-round rookie needs to do to earn the Browns' starting QB job next year.
If he can play more efficiently, reduce how many times he's putting the ball in harm's way - whether it's interceptions or fumbles - and also continue to develop into am ore explosive playmaker.
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But, until the team gets back together this Summer and can practice, Sanders has another goal Berry is urging him to accomplish: "Learn the new offense."
Todd Monken is coming to take over for Kevin Stefanski, and Sanders, along with the other Browns quarterbacks, will have to pick up the new offense.
If Sanders can learn the new offense and impress Monken and company before the competition begins in the Summer, then he could have a big advantage as he tries to be the starter in 2026.
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