The Cleveland Browns are preparing to overhaul their quarterback room for the 2026 season. Under new head coach Todd Monken, the organization is evaluating external options to potentially replace Shedeur Sanders.
According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, thefront office is targeting veteran Malik Willis and collegiate prospect Ty Simpson to compete for the starting role.
𝗥𝗨𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗦: The Browns have QBs Malik Willis and Ty Simpson on their radar, according to @MaryKayCabot pic.twitter.com/uQ78JzFMhz
— JPA (@jasrifootball) February 23, 2026
Sanders began the 2025 season as a backup but started the final seven games. He finished his rookie year with 1,400 passing yards and seven touchdowns against ten interceptions.
Although his performance earned him a Pro Bowl alternate selection, his league-low 68.1 passer rating has prompted the team to explore other candidates. The team holds his rights through 2028, but the front office appears ready to provide significant competition for the job.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws a pass in the first quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.
Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) throws a pass in the first quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati on Sunday, Jan. 4, 2026.
Malik Willis enters the 2026 offseason as the top-ranked free agent at his position. During his recent tenure with the Green Bay Packers, Willis demonstrated high efficiency and a 78.7 percent completion rate.
His mobility and experience make him a primary target for the offensive system Monken intends to implement. Analysts project Willis will seek a contract worth approximately 35 million dollars annually when free agency begins on March 11.
The Browns are also scouting Ty Simpson from Alabama. Simpson is a projected first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft after recording 3,567 passing yards and 28 touchdowns last season. Cleveland currently holds the 6th and 24th overall selections, which provide the flexibility to draft him.
While Deshaun Watson remains on the roster, his history of injuries and multiple surgeries has limited his availability. The team’s pursuit of Willis and Simpson indicates a desire for a durable, long-term solution at the position.
Monken and general manager Andrew Berry will prioritize finding a quarterback who can execute an explosive, dual-threat game plan.
Myles Garrett praises Shedeur Sanders for his confidence and poise
Myles Garrett recently praised Shedeur Sanders for his composure on the field. Speaking to DJ Siddiqi of Casino Guru, Garrett described the young quarterback as “pretty unflappable” and noted that Sanders remains “confident” while staying true to himself.
These remarks come as the Cleveland Browns prepare for the 2026 season. Sanders stepped into a starting role during his 2025 rookie campaign following injuries to the veteran roster.
Although he finished with poor numbers, his three victories earned him a chance to compete for the permanent starting job.
Head coach Todd Monken has not officially named a lead passer for the upcoming year. Garrett remains a vocal supporter of Sanders as the team evaluates its options at the position.