Cleveland Browns favor Deshaun Watson over Shedeur Sanders for Week 1 start

An insider with the Cleveland Browns says head coach Todd Monken is leaning toward starting veteran quarterback Deshaun Watson rather than Shedeur Sanders for the team's opening game. Watson, who has not played a regular‑season snap in more than a year, is ahead in the competition despite the uncertainty surrounding his recent suspension.

Former NFL star Deion Sanders defended his son Shedeur after longtime Browns reporter Mark Kay Cabot suggested the team should start Watson to allow the offense to gel early. Sanders criticized Cabot’s remarks, which referenced a separate comment about Mary Kay Cabot, and reiterated support for his son’s role on the roster.