Browns Face Quarterback Decision Amidst Performance Concerns
Deshaun Watson's starting role for Week 3 is uncertain following a lackluster Week 1 performance, with Shedeur Sanders vying for the position.
The Cleveland Browns are facing a critical decision regarding their starting quarterback position. Following a disappointing 34-10 Week 1 loss, Deshaun Watson is set to start in Week 2 against the Buccaneers. However, his role for the Week 3 home opener against the Carolina Panthers is yet to be determined.
Second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders remains a contender for the starting job. Sanders was reportedly beaten out by Watson during training camp after Watson's return from a season-ending Achilles injury.
Watson's recent performances have drawn criticism. During the preseason, he faced boos from fans. In Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, his struggles were evident early when he threw an interception on his third pass. He finished the game completing 16 of 22 passes for 205 yards and one touchdown, but was sacked five times.
Despite the offensive struggles and public frustration, head coach Todd Monken has publicly supported Watson as the starter. "I anticipate Deshaun will be our starter," Monken stated. "To be honest… they don’t have a choice. This isn’t a debate… I love our guys. But the moment we get into that… we’ve lost sight of the target."
Following the 2025 NFL Draft and the selection of rookie Taylen Green in the sixth round this year, the Browns may again look to address the quarterback position in the upcoming draft if the current room fails to establish clear starters. The team holds multiple first-round picks in the 2027 NFL Draft, a class anticipated to be rich in quarterback talent.
With no definitive decision made for Week 3, Watson's upcoming performance against the Buccaneers could be pivotal in determining his future as the Browns' starting quarterback.