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Browns starting QB Deshaun Watson will open the 2026 NFL season under center after Cleveland coach Todd Monken officially named him the team’s starter Monday. Watson won an extended competition with second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders, who will begin the season as his backup.
The decision followed weeks of evaluation during offseason workouts, training camp, preseason games and joint practices. Monken said the coaching staff ultimately believed Watson gave Cleveland the best opportunity to move the ball and score points in the season opener.
Breaking Browns Starting QB Decision Puts Watson Under Pressure
“Took in the full body of work over the course of offseason to training camp, to the games, the joint practice, and ultimately felt like to start the season on the road, Deshaun gave us the best chance to move the ball and score points,” Monken said, as reported by ESPN.
Monken also indicated that Watson’s role would not be handled as a weekly experiment. That gives the veteran quarterback a clearer opportunity to establish himself, while also placing significant pressure on him to deliver early in the season.
The Browns will travel to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 1. Cleveland’s second game will also be on the road against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before the team returns home in Week 3 to host the Carolina Panthers.
Watson Apologizes After Fans Boo Quarterback
The Browns’ announcement came shortly after Watson apologized for comments he made following Saturday’s preseason game. Watson had described fans as “disrespectful” after being booed during a difficult performance at Huntington Bank Field.
Watson completed just 5 of 12 passes for 35 yards and one interception across four second-half drives. The stadium was only about half full, but the reaction from fans was loud when Watson entered the game and struggled to generate offense.
On Monday, Watson opened his news conference with a two-minute apology. He said his emotions had gotten the better of him and clarified that he was not attempting to criticize every Browns supporter.
“My comments wasn’t intending to go at any of the fans around in the city, because there’s been a lot of great fans that have been supporting me,” Watson said. He also acknowledged the frustration surrounding his time in Cleveland and accepted responsibility for making the most of another opportunity.
Why the Browns Starting QB Choice Matters
Watson’s selection is closely tied to the Browns’ enormous investment in him. Cleveland traded three first-round picks to the Houston Texans to acquire the quarterback in March 2022 and gave him a fully guaranteed five-year contract worth $230 million.
However, Watson has not recreated the Pro Bowl-level form he showed in Houston. Since joining Cleveland, he has posted a 9-10 record as a starter and a 33.1 QBR. According to ESPN Research, that figure would rank last among qualifying quarterbacks over the relevant period.
Injuries have also disrupted Watson’s Browns career. He underwent season-ending surgery on his right throwing shoulder in 2023 after suffering a displaced glenoid fracture. He then missed the entire 2025 season after undergoing two surgeries related to a torn right Achilles tendon suffered in October 2024.
“It was a big investment, and we haven’t got the product out of that investment just so far,” Watson said Monday. “And I have another shot. I have another chance.”
Shedeur Sanders Begins as Watson’s Backup
Sanders, a 2025 fifth-round pick, pushed Watson throughout the offseason and training camp. The Browns split first-team repetitions between the two quarterbacks and gave Sanders the start in Saturday’s preseason contest after Watson opened the preseason against the Chicago Bears.
Sanders’ performance and development remain important to Cleveland’s long-term plans. Although he will not start Week 1, his presence gives the Browns a young alternative if Watson struggles or suffers another setback.
The team also has second-year quarterback Dillon Gabriel and 2026 sixth-round pick Taylen Green on its roster. Neither Watson nor Sanders is expected to play in Cleveland’s preseason finale against the New England Patriots. Gabriel and Green are scheduled to handle the quarterback duties in that game.
What Comes Next for Cleveland
Watson now has the opportunity to quiet criticism with his play. The Browns’ opening road schedule presents an immediate test, and strong performances could stabilize the quarterback position. Conversely, continued struggles may quickly intensify calls for Sanders or another option to receive playing time.
For now, Cleveland has made its choice. The Browns starting QB is Watson, and the organization is counting on the veteran to finally justify its massive investment when the regular season begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Browns starting QB for Week 1?
Deshaun Watson will start at quarterback for Cleveland in Week 1 of the 2026 season against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Who is Deshaun Watson’s backup?
Shedeur Sanders will serve as Watson’s backup after competing with him for the starting job throughout the offseason and preseason.
Why did Watson apologize to Browns fans?
Watson apologized after calling fans “disrespectful” for booing him during Saturday’s preseason game. He said his comments were driven by emotion and were not aimed at every Cleveland supporter.
How much did the Browns invest in Watson?
Cleveland traded three first-round picks for Watson and gave him a fully guaranteed five-year contract worth $230 million in 2022.
