Browns quarterback battle remains unresolved after preseason opener
Cleveland’s 34-10 defeat to Chicago highlights ongoing uncertainty at the most critical position on the roster.
The Cleveland Browns suffered a 34-10 defeat to the Chicago Bears in their preseason opener at Soldier Field, yet the primary narrative centred on the unresolved competition for the starting quarterback role. Head coach Todd Monken praised Deshaun Watson’s performance in his first game action since October 2024, following a missed 2025 season due to Achilles surgery. Watson completed 10 of 15 passes for 126 yards and led two scoring drives, accounting for the team’s only points. Shedeur Sanders started the second half, completing 6 of 11 passes for 79 yards with one interception. The outcome leaves the quarterback battle open as the team prepares for joint practices with the Buffalo Bills.
Watson, who is currently competing with Sanders for the starting position, played the first half and demonstrated offensive rhythm before his performance was derailed by a turnover. He orchestrated a 10-play, 86-yard scoring drive that resulted in a 14-yard touchdown run for rookie wide receiver KC Concepcion. However, Watson was strip-sacked on fourth-and-two during his fourth drive, resulting in a fumble recovered by the Bears. His final two possessions ended in punts, and he did not return for the second half.
Monken described Watson’s return as "awesome" and noted his high-level function despite the loss. "I get all of the frustration by fans, himself. But for him to come back and work like he did is an unbelievable credit to him," Monken said. The head coach acknowledged the team’s inability to sustain drives, citing timeouts and delay of game penalties, but remained focused on the quarterback’s physical readiness after sitting out the entire 2025 season following a second Achilles surgery in January 2025.
Sanders took over in the third quarter and played three series into the fourth, completing 6 of 11 passes for 79 yards. While he gained chunk yardage on his opening possession, he threw an interception on his third series after overthrowing wide receiver Malachi Corley. Sanders acknowledged the turnover was not ideal but maintained a positive outlook on his development. Dillon Gabriel played the remainder of the game, completing 5 of 8 passes for 23 yards and throwing another interception.
Looking ahead, Monken confirmed that both Watson and Sanders will split first-team reps during joint practices with the Buffalo Bills on Thursday. For the second preseason game against the Bills next Saturday, Sanders is scheduled to start and play in the first half, while Watson is expected to play in the third quarter. Gabriel will play in the fourth quarter. Monken stated that despite the turnovers, he was pleased with the overall quarterback play and the team's ability to throw the football effectively.
