The Cleveland Browns find themselves embroiled in yet another quarterback controversy, with indications pointing towards a seasoned yet controversial figure gaining the upper hand over a promising second-year player. Cleveland has long been associated with quarterback instability, and the franchise hopes to resolve this by establishing a definitive starter for the upcoming season.
Watson Leads in Early Minicamp
In the ongoing competition between injury-plagued Deshaun Watson and second-year standout Shedeur Sanders, the Browns appear to be favouring Watson, according to team insider Mary Kat Cabot. Sources informed Cabot that Watson holds a slight advantage during the team's offseason minicamp thus far. The report attributes Watson's edge to his extensive experience, noting that he has 'had to learn many new systems over the past ten seasons,' resulting in 'carryover in terms of both terminology and plays.'
Monken's Offense Favours Watson
Cabot further reports that new Browns head coach Todd Monken operates an offense that 'features some of the same spread and other passing concepts that Watson excelled in with the Texans.' This familiarity could be pivotal in determining the starter. Monken aims to identify his starting quarterback by the conclusion of minicamp on June 11, granting Watson and Sanders six weeks to state their case.
Watson's Injury and Off-Field Issues
Watson's career has been marred by a series of injuries and off-field controversies, including multiple lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct and assault. In the 2023 season, he suffered a fractured shoulder, limiting him to just six starts. During Week 7 of the 2024 season, he tore his Achilles tendon, causing him to miss the remainder of that campaign and the entire 2025 season.
Sanders' Rookie Struggles
Sanders, meanwhile, experienced a difficult rookie season, completing 56% of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns, and ten interceptions. The Browns have reached the playoffs only twice in the last decade and have posted a combined 8-26 record over the past two seasons.
