There have been many questions concerning Shedeur Sanders' status with the Cleveland Browns entering the 2026 season.
Will Sanders be the team's starting quarterback of the future? Or will Deshaun Watson or a potential early-round draft pick compete for the job?
On Wednesday, Browns' head coach Todd Monken provided a clear answer as to where the former fifth-round pick sits in the team's pecking order.
"I think it's an open competition," said Monken regarding the team’s QB job.
Monken added that the Browns would like to have their starting quarterback determined by training camp.
"You would hope that that's the case," continued Monken. "You would hope that by the time you get to training camp, the reps you're giving to a quarterback is for your starter. Whether we get to that place, I don't know."
Sanders took over the starting job from 2025 third-round pick Dillon Gabriel in Week 12 of last season, finishing the year 3-5 as a starter. He finished the season averaging 175 yards passing per game on 56.6% passing, recording seven touchdowns against 10 interceptions.
Interesting option
Along with Sanders and Gabriel, Watson is also in the mix to return as the team's starter for the upcoming campaign. Watson has been out after re-rupturing his Achilles during the 2024 season. He missed the entire 2025 campaign but is expected to return to action in time for the upcoming season.
Watson was previously suspended for 11 games during the 2022 season, his first year in Cleveland, for violating the league's personal conduct policy. He signed a five-year, $230 million fully guaranteed contract with the Browns before the ’22 campaign. The 30-year-old is signed through the 2026 season.
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