The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback competition reached its latest milestone when training camp opened in late July. The next significant date will come when they open their preseason schedule next Saturday against the Chicago Bears.
So far, the battle between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders has left a lot to be desired. While both quarterbacks have shown flashes of their potential upside, they also have struggled at times, particularly throwing interceptions.
In addition, there was a rare change in practice this week, when the two QBs split reps with the first team, rather than a back-and-forth of taking most of the snaps on alternate days. It could indicate that the contest may be closer than it appears.
Insider Tony Grossi recently predicted which Browns QB will start the first preseason game, and he is giving the nod to Watson.
“I fully expect Watson to start the first game,” Grossi said.
"I fully expect Watson to start the first game," – @TonyGrossi on the Browns preseason opener. https://t.co/1yLUUq1AkC pic.twitter.com/t1GvKbGfFe
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) August 7, 2026
That would align with the thought that Watson has regained control of the competition after losing momentum toward the end of spring workouts and the first practices of training camp. Sanders had closed the gap and may have held a slight edge at some point, but it looks like the pendulum is swinging back toward the veteran.
Grossi also said that he believes Watson will be the No. 1 quarterback when the Browns take part in a joint practice against the Buffalo Bills on Aug. 20. The teams will meet in a preseason game two days later at Huntington Bank Field, and if Watson is the starter in that game, that would be a clear indication that he is bound to be the Browns’ quarterback when they open the regular season against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sept. 13.
So, perhaps the only thing left to be sorted out is who Watson’s backup will be. While it is most likely to be Sanders, Gabriel has become more than an afterthought in the discussion with his play during camp.
Of course, one injury could drastically change this course, so until head coach Todd Monken makes his decision official, anything is possible.
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