Browns’ Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson done for preseason with QB1 decision looming

Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders publicly defended his teammate Deshaun Watson after the home crowd reacted negatively during Saturday’s preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills. Although Sanders is in a competitive race for the starting quarterback position, he made it clear to reporters that he did not approve of fans booing Watson. He emphasized that fundamental human respect and empathy should always be prioritized over positional rivalries and on-field challenges in professional sports.

With that eventful home game behind them, the Browns are officially concluding their evaluations of their top two quarterbacks. ESPN senior NFL insider Jeremy Fowler delivered an update on the depth chart via X, stating that head coach Todd Monken has a definitive plan for the final exhibition game: “Thursday night will feature Dillon Gabriel and Taylen at quarterback for the Browns, per Todd Monken. Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders will not participate in any more preseason action.” By sidelining both primary competitors ahead of the last dress rehearsal against the New England Patriots, the coaching staff indicated that they have gathered all the necessary live-rep data. This allows Monken and the front office to evaluate the entire body of work from training camp practices and early exhibition drives privately.

The crucial decision regarding who will lead the Browns onto the field for the Week 1 regular season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars is approaching. According to Fowler, the organization is expected to finalize and formally announce its starting quarterback on Monday. While Watson’s fully guaranteed contract and extensive experience initially made him the favorite to start the season, Sanders’ composed performances and sharp execution have turned this into one of the most closely contested battles in the league. Monken now faces the challenge of balancing immediate stability with long-term offensive potential before finalizing the depth chart.

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