Deshaun Watson starting Browns’ exhibition opener at QB, Shedeur Sanders to start next week vs Bills
BEREA, Ohio (AP) — Deshaun Watson gets to go first. The polarizing quarterback will start Cleveland’s exhibition opener at Chicago on Saturday — his first game action since 2024 — and Shedeur Sanders will play in the…
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson will take the starting position for the team's preseason opener against Chicago on Saturday, marking his first game action since 2024. This comes after first-year coach Todd Monken informed Watson and rookie Shedeur Sanders of his plans for the first two preseason games, following their practice on Wednesday.
Watson and Sanders have been competing for Cleveland's starting quarterback position throughout training camp, with every play closely scrutinized by both the media and fans, whether in person or online. Monken intends to have Watson in the game for the first half against the Bears and will likely give him a two-minute drill. The second QB, Shedeur Sanders, will play in the third quarter.
The roles will be reversed against Buffalo on August 22 when Cleveland takes on the Bills in a preseason game. Monken stated that both quarterbacks will see action in the games, without providing any specific reasoning for his decision. The Browns will also practice against the Bills on August 20 before their regular season opener against Jacksonville on September 13.
Monken hopes to have a clear decision on his No. 1 quarterback well in advance of Week 1, as time is running short. Watson, 30, has faced significant injuries and turmoil during his tenure with the Browns, including a season-ending shoulder injury in 2023 and two ruptured Achilles tendons.
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