Former Cleveland Browns quarterback Robert Griffin III believes the team needs to make a clear decision at quarterback, and he thinks Shedeur Sanders should be the one getting the starting job.
With Sanders competing against Deshaun Watson, Griffin argued that Cleveland’s decision could have consequences beyond the football field.
Former Browns QB Backs Sanders for QB1
Griffin believes Browns fans want to see a legitimate quarterback competition and could quickly lose faith in the organization if Sanders is overlooked for reasons outside of his performance.
Speaking about the situation, Griffin said: “As an organization, there is no way Cleveland can name anyone but Shedeur Sanders the starting quarterback if they want the support of the city.”
As an organization, there is no way Cleveland can name anyone but Shedeur Sanders the starting quarterback if they want the support of the city.
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) August 22, 2026
The former Browns quarterback also questioned whether Sanders has received a truly fair opportunity to win the job.
Sanders has taken first-team reps during camp and was named the starter for Cleveland’s second preseason game against Buffalo. However, Griffin believes evaluating him without the same supporting cast as Watson makes it difficult to make a fair comparison.
Griffin noted that Watson’s fully guaranteed contract creates an inherent organizational bias, arguing the front office should be transparent rather than running a questionable QB battle.
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Sanders Makes Strong Case Against Bills
Sanders had an impressive start in Cleveland’s preseason matchup with Buffalo.
The rookie completed his first eight passes and helped lead an 11-play, 65-yard opening drive. He capped the possession with an 8-yard touchdown pass to Luke Floriea in the back of the end zone.
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His biggest mistake came in the second quarter when a pass intended for tight end Jermaine Terry was tipped by linebacker Joe Andreessen and intercepted by Damar Hamlin.
Griffin immediately defended Sanders after the turnover, arguing that the interception should not be held against the quarterback because the pass was tipped after leaving his hand. “Drops should not count on a QB’s stat line. Drops that turn into INTs shouldn’t count on a QB’s stat line,” Griffin argued.
Watson, meanwhile, took over in the second half but struggled to generate offense. He finished with just 35 passing yards and threw an interception as Cleveland suffered a 31-7 loss.
Sanders’ efficient first half and Watson’s struggles only add more intrigue to Cleveland’s quarterback competition.
For Griffin, though, the answer appears straightforward. He believes the Browns need to trust Sanders and give him a genuine opportunity to become the team’s starter.
