[REVISION HISTORY]

Watson maintains Browns starter role amid QB competition

Updated 45 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-10-25 10:51 UTC → 2026-10-27 00:23 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation remains a focal point of debate as Deshaun Watson continues his tenure as the starter for the 2026 season. Following a preseason competition with Shedeur Sanders, head coach Todd Monken selected Watson, citing his ability to ‘move the ball and score points.’ This decision has been met with scrutiny regarding Watson’s $230 million guaranteed contract and his recent recovery from Achilles surgeries. The season began with significant volatility. After a 34-10 season-opening loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars, Watson faced intense criticism from media and fans for his performance and his comments regarding ‘unrealistic expectations.’ However, Watson has since stabilized his position, leading comeback victories against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers. These wins helped the Browns reach a 4-2 record and secure first place in the AFC North. Watson’s recent ~~resurgence, including leading four fourth-quarter game-winning drives,~~ resurgence has ~~complicated~~ continued with a 27-24 victory over the ~~team’s long-term strategy. While~~ Tennessee Titans, improving the ~~organization previously planned~~ Browns to ~~overhaul~~ a 5-2 record. Watson orchestrated his fifth fourth-quarter game-winning drive of the ~~quarterback room to prepare~~ season, throwing for 308 yards and rushing for a ~~2027 rebuild, Watson’s performance has sparked speculation regarding~~ touchdown. The offense recorded 491 total yards, a ~~potential new contract. Owner Jimmy Haslam noted~~ significant improvement for a unit that ~~while contract discussions are premature,~~ previously ranked near the ~~team respects Watson’s ability to ‘battle back~~ bottom of the league in scoring and yardage. The win was secured by a last-second 32-yard field goal from ~~injuries.’ Despite~~ Andre Szmyt. While Watson’s ~~success,~~ performance has complicated long-term strategy, the future of backup Shedeur Sanders remains a subject of speculation. Reports suggest the Browns may be open to trading Sanders or fellow backup Dillon Gabriel near the November 10 trade deadline to clear depth chart space for rookie Taylen Green. ~~While some observers noted Sanders’ perceived frustration, internal reports suggest he maintains a positive relationship with teammates.~~

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