Browns Name Deshaun Watson Starting QB for Preseason Opener
Coach Todd Monken told both quarterbacks Wednesday that Watson starts Saturday at Chicago, with Shedeur Sanders set to start the team's second preseason game.
Cleveland Browns coach Todd Monken informed Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders on Wednesday that Watson will start the team's preseason opener Saturday at the Chicago Bears, with Sanders set to start the second preseason game against Buffalo on Aug. 22.
How will the snaps be split?
The plan calls for each starter to play a half in his respective game, with the non-starter getting the third quarter. Both quarterbacks had been alternating first-team reps throughout training camp.
What did Watson say?
Watson, returning from the torn right Achilles that cost him all of 2025, said he's ready for the moment. "I'm super excited... all the hard work that I've put in... to get to this stage has been tremendous," he said.
How has Sanders looked since taking over last year?
Sanders started the final seven games of his rookie season in 2025, going 3-4 with seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. "We approach practice like a game... it's a different type of intention and mentality," he said of this year's camp.
Players in this story
Sources
- ESPN: Browns name Watson starting QB for preseason opener
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