Browns Quarterback Competition Continues during Offseason Program

Cleveland Browns Quarterback Competition: A Three-Way Race

The Cleveland Browns are deep into their offseason program, with an open and highly competitive battle for the starting quarterback position. Head Coach Todd Monken and General Manager Andrew Berry have provided key updates on the team’s evaluation process and roster strategy.

"We are rotating the quarterbacks and will continue to do so for the time being."
— Head Coach Todd Monken

Quarterback Rotation

The Browns have been rotating Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders as the lead quarterback during Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Coach Monken confirmed this rotation will continue, noting that Watson has showcased his athleticism, while Sanders has demonstrated growing command of the offense.

• Monken's Timeline: The coach expressed a desire to name a starter by the end of spring workouts, but he acknowledged that this timeline is not guaranteed.

Roster & Competition

General Manager Andrew Berry, speaking at the scouting combine on February 24, confirmed that no starter has been determined. The Browns currently have three quarterbacks under contract: Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel.

• Berry’s Mandate: "All players in the quarterback room will be expected to compete for the starting role."

Berry stated that the primary expectation for Sanders this offseason is to learn the new offensive scheme. The team is focused on his continued growth, improved efficiency, and reduced turnovers, while still encouraging his ability to create explosive plays.

Watson missed the entire 2025 season due to a torn Achilles. He returned to practice late last season but was not activated. According to Berry, Watson is working to regain full health and will also need to learn the new offensive scheme from scratch.

Future Quarterback Additions

Despite selecting Dillon Gabriel in the third round and Shedeur Sanders in the fifth round of the 2025 draft, Berry made it clear that the team will not limit its options.

"We will not place any restrictions on potential additions to the quarterback position."
— General Manager Andrew Berry

Berry did not rule out selecting another quarterback in the 2026 draft or adding a veteran through free agency, signaling that the competition is far from over.