Browns QB depth chart: Why Deshaun Watson beat out Shedeur Sanders in NFL’s most contentious QB1 battle
The veteran beats out Shedeur Sanders for the Week 1 nod.
Cleveland Browns have declared Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback for the upcoming season, surpassing second-year player Shedeur Sanders in the QB1 battle. Despite Watson's poor preseason performance and his outburst over fans booing him, Watson's seniority and fully-guaranteed contract secured his position. Prior to joining the Browns, Watson had a successful stint in 2024 before tearing his Achilles tendon, which shortened his 2025 season.
Watson will begin the season as the starter against the Jaguars in Week 1, while Sanders will serve as the backup. The Browns' depth chart features Dillon Gabriel and Taylen Green as the third and fourth quarterbacks, with Gabriel being a third-round pick and Green being a project quarterback.
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