Browns predicted to make a wild Taylen Green QB decision by ESPN image
The Cleveland Browns are entering the 2026 NFL season with Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback. But it would hardly be a surprise if he eventually lost this job.
Whether it's after a few weeks, after Week 2, Week 1, or even during the season opener, Watson could realistically lose this QB job in 2026. Shedeur Sanders would slot right in as the new starter, and Dillon Gabriel could start at some point as well.
However, ESPN's Seth Walder shared a very bold prediction that rather than one of those three quarterbacks, sixth-round rookie QB Taylen Green would make not just one, but four starts during the upcoming season.
Browns predicted to start Taylen Green four times during 2026 season
"Quarterback Taylen Green will start at least four games," Walder predicts. "... I'm bearish on Watson, Sanders and Gabriel, so by the time the end of the season rolls around, I suspect the Browns will want to see if they have anything in Green."
While Watson is starting Week 1, and Sanders is sure to see the field at some point this season, the other two quarterbacks have much more uncertain opportunities.
Gabriel could eventually start for the Browns, but he's also a trade candidate. Green, on the other hand, is a developmental quarterback prospect who might not see much playing time at all this season.
If he sat the full year, it wouldn't be a bad decision. There's potential here, but he needs some work. So, if the Browns did wind up starting him for at least four games, it would be a big surprise.
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More likely than not, if Green were actually to make at least four starts for the Browns, it would come near the end of the season. If he's starting, the Browns' season is likely over.
After the Browns' Week 11 bye, they face the Las Vegas Raiders, Cincinnati Bengals, Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, and close the season against the Bengals one more time.
If Green is to play at least four games, that would likely mean the latest he could take over as QB1 is Week 15 against the Giants.
Making Green the starter for any period of time this upcoming season would be a surprise. It would be especially stunning if he starts around a quarter of the season.
Walder is predicting that such a scenario will play out this year, with the Browns QB4 earning at least four starts by the end of the season. If things go terribly wrong leading up to and through the bye, this wild prediction might actually come true.
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