Cleveland’s offseason plan has created as many questions as answers at quarterback. The Cleveland Browns focused heavily on repairing the offensive line during the opening wave of free agency but chose not to bring in another passer.
That decision sets up a direct competition between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson for the starting role heading into 2026.
The lack of additions was not entirely by choice. Financial limitations ruled out pursuing Malik Willis, and acquiring a veteran through trade would have required sacrificing valuable draft capital. Even so, the front office has not closed the door on upgrading the position.
Insider Mary Kay Cabot reported that Cleveland is continuing to evaluate quarterback prospects ahead of the draft. The organization is expected to review multiple options, signaling that Sanders’ grip on the job remains uncertain.
“The Browns like Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, but it remains to be seen if they like him enough to take him in the first round, where he’s likely to go. Simpson has started only 15 games — all last season — but exhibited some tantalizing traits, including quick processing, accuracy, arm strength and mobility,” Cabot wrote.
Cleveland’s draft position complicates matters. With picks at No. 6 and No. 24, the team would likely need to adjust its strategy, either moving up or down, to secure a top quarterback prospect. That uncertainty leaves general manager Andrew Berry balancing immediate roster needs with long-term upside at the most critical position.
Sanders’ late surge contrasts with lingering uncertainty
Sanders’ rookie season unfolded in an unexpected fashion but ended with enough promise to keep him firmly in the conversation. Once projected as a first-round talent, he slid to the fifth round, selected 144th overall by Cleveland in the 2025 draft. That drop immediately placed him under scrutiny.
Early in the year, Sanders operated as the third option on the depth chart under former head coach Kevin Stefanski. His opportunity arrived in Week 11 when he entered in relief of Dillon Gabriel due to injury. One week later, he earned his first start against the Las Vegas Raiders, finishing with 209 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception in a 24-10 win.
He went on to start seven games, appearing in eight total contests. By season’s end, Sanders had accumulated 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, along with a Pro Bowl selection. Those numbers reflected both flashes of potential and areas that still require refinement.
With Todd Monken now leading the team and Watson expected back from injury, the quarterback situation remains fluid. Sanders enters his second season competing not only for playing time but also for long-term security.
Away from the field, however, his trajectory looks far more stable. His rising profile has translated into major endorsement deals and strong public visibility, highlighted by becoming the most-searched athlete in the United States on Google in 2025.
As Cleveland weighs its next move, Sanders’ development and marketability create a unique dual-track evaluation for the franchise.
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