The Cleveland Browns opened training camp this week with a competition at quarterback between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders.
New head coach Todd Monken said he plans to evaluate both players closely before selecting a starter for the season. Monken noted that neither quarterback has clearly pulled ahead during practices so far. He added that both have shown they can play winning football and that the competition will continue once the team practices in pads.
Watson returns from a torn Achilles injury. He has spoken about his preparation for the 2026 season. In recent comments, Watson said he feels he is in a strong place mentally and physically. He described this as his fifth year with the team and expressed belief that the season could allow things to come together for him after previous limited playing time.
Watson has appeared in 19 games for the Browns across earlier seasons. Sanders, a fifth round pick in 2025, has worked to close any gap during offseason practices. The two quarterbacks have trained together at times away from the facility.
The Browns continue their evaluation process as camp progresses. Monken has not set a firm timeline for naming a Week 1 starter. The team will use practices and preseason games to gather more information on both players.
Watson and Sanders remain the primary options at the position as the Browns prepare for the upcoming NFL season. The competition forms a central part of the early camp focus under the new coaching staff.