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Cleveland Browns QB battle heats up

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2026-07-26 02:01 UTC → 2026-07-27 02:43 UTC · added removed

Cleveland Browns QB battle heats up, trade talk revives up

The Browns entered the 2026 offseason with new under head coach Todd Monken, whose priority is who prioritized quarterback mobility. The competition still pits veteran Deshaun Watson against second‑year Shedeur Sanders. Watson has shown rushing ability but carries a history of lower‑body injuries and on‑field inconsistency, while Sanders' college mobility has yet to fully translate to the NFL level. At the start of training camp on July 18, Monken began evaluating the group. Video Watson—returning from a torn Achilles after missing the camp showed Watson and 2025 season—against second‑year Shedeur Sanders working out together, with analysts labeling Watson the current front‑runner. The roster also includes Dillon Gabriel, Taylen Green and rookie Spencer Fano on the offensive line. Trade chatter broadened beyond Dallas, with the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers mentioned as possible suitors for Sanders, though many view the Browns as likely to keep him for depth. Two days later, former NFL head coach and ESPN analyst Rex Ryan publicly attacked Sanders, criticizing his off‑field behavior and perceived arrogance. Sanders’ mother, Pilar, responded on social media, defending her son. The criticism resurfaced on July 20, with Ryan again calling Sanders an “embarrassment” and Pilar replying “Yes, eat it up Rex.” On July 25 Dillon Gabriel. Monken said the team is headed in the right direction despite a crowded quarterback room. He direction, praised Watson’s progress after returning from a torn Achilles and noted Sanders has simplified his off‑field life to improve consistency. Sanders posted a 56.6% completion rate, 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns and ten interceptions last season, including a 364‑yard, three‑touchdown effort three‑touch‑down game against the Titans. Both veterans and the rookie Dillon Gabriel remain in the mix for the Week 1 starter. Monken has emphasized starter as the quarterback room stays crowded. On July 26, wide receiver Jerry Jeudy sparked additional speculation after a TikTok live stream where he briefly held up four fingers, a gesture many read as support for Watson. Jeudy later clarified that both quarterbacks remain eligible he does not comment on coaching decisions, affirmed his support for all teammates and asked fans to start stop creating fabricated narratives. The incident underscored the heightened attention on the quarterback battle, but the organization continues to stress unity and focus on each player’s development. Monken reiterated that the competition staff’s job is still open. to develop each quarterback and find the best solution for the team’s future, leaving the starter’s identity open as training camp progresses.

Versions

  1. 2026-07-27 02:43 UTC Cleveland Browns QB battle heats up
  2. 2026-07-26 02:01 UTC Cleveland Browns QB battle heats up, trade talk revives

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