Early in his NFL career, Shedeur Sanders is already navigating the pressure surrounding the Cleveland Browns’ quarterback competition with Deshaun Watson.
However, Sanders’ response to the controversy emerging from training camp has now earned him praise from a veteran reporter.
Rich Eisen Has Strong Praise for Shedeur Sanders’ Handling of Browns Drama
Sanders was initially expected to receive the majority of the first-team reps during last Saturday’s practice. However, the situation changed when Watson was seen taking first-team reps, while Sanders joined the second unit alongside Dillon Gabriel.
Head coach Todd Monken’s decision quickly generated backlash and speculation among fans, but Sanders chose not to fuel the controversy; rather, he publicly defended his coach.
That calm response caught the attention of Rich Eisen, who praised Sanders for refusing to get drawn into the noise surrounding the quarterback battle.
“I just love the way he handles himself,” Eisen said. “I mean, the son of Prime is not gonna be taking bait.”
Monken’s decision initially sparked speculation that Watson could gain an advantage and emerge as the favorite to become Cleveland’s QB1 for the 2026 NFL season. However, the Browns coach later pushed back against those assumptions, making it clear that the quarterback competition remains unresolved.
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Meanwhile, Monken has established a preseason plan that will allow both quarterbacks to make their case. Watson is scheduled to start the Browns’ preseason opener against the Chicago Bears and play the entire first half. At the same time, Sanders is expected to take over during the third quarter, according to reporting from ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi.
“Monken said he hopes to play the QB who starts on Saturday for the first half, with the other getting to play in the third quarter,” Oyefusi wrote. “Plan is to get the starters at least one series, with others possibly getting a quarter of action.”
The Browns will then reverse the rotation in Preseason Week 2 against the Buffalo Bills. Sanders is expected to receive the starting opportunity in that matchup, while Watson will enter afterward in a relief role.
The second-year quarterback struggled to establish himself during his rookie season, finishing with 1,400 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. His performance resulted in a No. 37 ranking and a 63.0 grade in PFN’s QB Impact Rankings.
Now, Sanders is determined to silence the criticism surrounding his game and prove that his rookie struggles do not define his potential. At the same time, Watson is attempting to demonstrate that he still has plenty left to offer after missing the entire 2025 NFL season while recovering from Achilles tendon ruptures.
