Deshaun Watson named Browns starter as Shedeur Sanders challenge looms
Cleveland coach Todd Monken has chosen Watson for Week 1, although reporter Daryl Ruiter says Sanders could claim the role during the season.
Cleveland Browns coach Todd Monken has named Deshaun Watson the team’s Week 1 starting quarterback ahead of Shedeur Sanders, formalising a decision that remains under scrutiny.
Watson has not thrown a regular-season pass since tearing his Achilles in October 2024. In the second game of the pre-season, he completed five of 12 passes for 35 yards and threw one interception. The source also reports that he was booed during a home pre-season appearance.
The Sporting News reported that Watson’s record since joining Cleveland in 2022 is 9–10 across 19 games, with 19 touchdown passes, 12 interceptions and an 80.7 passer rating. Sanders went 3–4 in seven starts as a rookie, completing 56.6 per cent of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
Monken has cited Watson’s competitiveness and work ethic, while Sanders is being used with the scout team following the decision. The coach’s selection leaves Watson with the starting role, but not necessarily a settled position on the depth chart.
Daryl Ruiter said the two quarterbacks were nearly even during training camp, although Watson appeared more ready to play immediately. Ruiter predicted Sanders could be ready to take over as the season progresses. No change has been confirmed.
