The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback competition is beginning to take shape, but clarity remains some distance away. With Deshaun Watson working his way back to full fitness and Shedeur Sanders trying to establish himself, the battle has quickly become one of the most closely watched storylines of the offseason.
Recent reports suggest Watson may have the upper hand, though that advantage is far from decisive. The Browns’ revamped offense and new coaching structure add another layer of intrigue to the situation. As training camp approaches, opinions are starting to form on who will ultimately come out on top.
Browns Insider Backs Deshaun Watson to Edge Shedeur Sanders in QB Battle
Longtime Browns insider Tony Grossi recently weighed in on ESPN Cleveland with his personal assessment of the competition, making it clear he believes the veteran will hold off the second-year quarterback.
“It’s my opinion that Watson will prevail,” Grossi said. “That’s not the coach’s opinion or a source’s opinion, it’s my opinion. That’s what I do. I believe if he’s healthy, he’ll be a better version of himself than we’ve seen yet. That doesn’t mean he’s an MVP…I don’t know if he’ll ever be that quarterback again.”
Grossi expanded on why he feels Watson has the edge, pointing to both physical and mental readiness following a difficult stretch in recent years.
“But I think physically he’s healthy, he’s in his best shape, according to everyone,” he added. “Mentally, he’s in good shape to get over everything that went down the pike. And we have a new offensive system and coach who, I think, respects what he used to be.”
“It’s my opinion that Watson will prevail,” – @TonyGrossi on who the Browns starting QB will be in 2026.
Do you agree? pic.twitter.com/IzTo3lbTti
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) May 4, 2026
His comments reflect a belief that a fresh system and improved health could help Watson stabilize his performance, even if he does not return to his peak Houston Texans form.
That viewpoint aligns with recent minicamp reports, where Watson has reportedly taken an early lead in the competition. According to Mary Kay Cabot, the veteran exited voluntary workouts with an advantage over both Sanders and Dillon Gabriel.
She also cautioned that the Colorado product still faces a steep climb, noting, “Sanders has plenty of ground to make up, and he will have to dazzle the coaching staff to land atop the depth chart heading into training camp.”
From a statistical standpoint, Sanders’ rookie campaign highlights why patience may be required. Per PFSN’s Quarterback Impact Metrics, he posted a 56.9 QBi score with a below-average F grade, ranking 46th among quarterbacks. Those numbers underscore the developmental gap between him and a more experienced option like Deshaun Watson.
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However, the Browns have taken clear steps to support whoever wins the job. The front office overhauled the offensive line, bringing in players such as Zion Johnson, Tytus Howard, and Elgton Jenkins, while also drafting Spencer Fano to anchor the left tackle position.
At the same time, Cleveland addressed its lack of playmakers by adding wide receivers KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston early in the draft.
Watson’s journey in Cleveland has been far from smooth. Since arriving, he has dealt with suspension, injuries, including a ruptured Achilles tendon in 2024, and inconsistent performances. Even so, recent reports suggest he has looked sharp in offseason sessions, reinforcing the idea that his experience could prove decisive early on.
The Browns’ decision may ultimately come down to timing. Watson offers familiarity and a higher immediate floor, while Sanders represents long-term potential.
