The Cleveland Browns' quarterback debate is already heating up—and we're still more than four months away from the 2026 NFL season opener. New head coach Todd Monken is feeling the pressure to settle on a signal-caller, but he's taking a patient approach.
On Friday, May 1, Monken addressed the competition just two days after a report suggested veteran Deshaun Watson holds an early lead. When asked by local radio host Ken Carman if he'd like to name a starter by training camp, Monken didn't hesitate: "I would love to have that. I'm not there yet, so I can't say that. We've been on the field three practices, which was awesome to get out there with our players."
The Browns have been searching for stability under center since acquiring Watson from the Houston Texans in 2022, handing him a guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract. But the results have been underwhelming. Between a disciplinary suspension and injuries to his shoulder and Achilles, Watson has played just 19 games for Cleveland, posting an 80.7 quarterback rating—well below the 104.5 he recorded as a Texan.
Last season, rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel both saw significant playing time during the Browns' 5-12 campaign. Sanders went 3-4 as a starter to close the year and earned a Pro Bowl nod, despite throwing more interceptions (10) than touchdown passes (seven). Cleveland also added former Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green in the sixth round of this year's draft.
Monken hinted that a de facto starter will emerge during OTAs and mandatory minicamp, which ends June 11. Training camp opens July 25. "They're all external to me," Monken said of the quarterbacks. "There's only so many reps you get; you've got to start to target towards who's going to start opening day. Now that can still change—even if somebody's getting two-thirds of the reps, and someone's getting one-third of the reps because you're still going to play preseason games."
Expect Watson to get the first shot at locking down the job. As a first-time head coach, Monken will likely lean on Watson's experience and upside. Plus, the Browns would love to finally get some useful production from the massive investment they've made in the 30-year-old. Should Watson falter again, Sanders will be first in line to take the reins.