Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry addressed the team’s quarterback situation during the NFL Scouting Combine on February 24, 2026. He confirmed that the starting position for the upcoming season remains unsettled.Deshaun Watson is preparing to return to the field after missing the entire 2025 season due to a recurring Achilles injury. However, Berry indicated that Shedeur Sanders has a legitimate opportunity to earn the top spot on the depth chart through an open competition.
Jan 4, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) rushes against the Cincinnati Bengals during the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Jan 4, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) rushes against the Cincinnati Bengals during the second half at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Sanders took over as the starter during his rookie season and showed flashes of potential despite inconsistent results. The young quarterback finished the year with 1,400 passing yards and seven touchdowns but struggled with turnovers, recording 10 interceptions over eight games.
Berry noted that while the talent is evident, Shedeur Sanders must refine his decision making to lead the offense permanently.
“I think the biggest thing that we want to see from Shedeur is just continued growth,” Berrysaid to reporters on Tuesday. “I think he grew a lot from Start 1 to Start 7. Certainly playing more efficiently, not putting the ball in harm’s way as much would be important, while 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
The assessment process will continue through the spring as the roster transitions under new leadership. Sanders must master the offensive system implemented by head coach Todd Monken and improve his physical conditioning. Watson remains under a significant contract and will challenge for his former role once he receives full medical clearance.
The front office does not intend to name a starter before the offseason program begins in April. Berry stated that the organization will monitor the progress of both players while also considering veteran additions through free agency or the upcoming draft. The team holds two first round picks which could provide further competition at the position.
Shedeur Sanders faces competition for Browns starting role
The Cleveland Brownsare evaluating Malik Willis and Ty Simpson as potential replacements for Shedeur Sanders. Head coach Todd Monken aims to stabilize the quarterback position before the 2026 season begins.
Willis enters free agency after a productive stint in Green Bay where he recorded a high completion percentage. Simpson represents a top prospect in the upcoming draft class and offers a fresh alternative for the front office.
General Manager Andrew Berry confirmed the starting job is open for competition despite Sanders being a Pro Bowl alternate last year. The team also expects Deshaun Watson to return from injury to challenge for the role.
Cleveland plans to restructure existing contracts to create forty million dollars in cap space for these roster moves. Evaluation of all candidates will continue through the scouting combine and free agency.