As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Cleveland Browns' front office are strategizing to solve their quarterback crisis. Despite having three quarterbacks in their roster, the Browns are unable to name a clear starter for the season.

Browns' General Manager Andrew Berry’s latest statement added fuel to the fire on the situation, especially for Shedeur Sanders.

On 16 April, Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot shared an X post of Berry addressing the media ahead of the season. During the conference, Berry discussed the possibility of drafting a quarterback in the upcoming draft.

“I think it’s possible that we could. Quite frankly, it’s possible that we could add to any position. That’s really the truth. And I wouldn’t disqualify quarterback,” Berry said.

The Browns have nine draft picks due to their 5-12 record and an unstable quarterback room. Ahead of the 2025 season, Joe Flacco started as QB1 for the Browns.

After several disappointing performances, Dillon Gabriel received the starting job in Week 5. He scored seven touchdowns for 937 yards in six games. Eventually, he sustained a season-ending concussion in Week 11, leaving Sanders to take over. 

However, Sanders had a rough start, as he played in eight games and started in seven. According to Pro Football Reference, he threw for 1,400 yards and scored seven touchdowns against 10 interceptions.

While some experts and fans believe he should be given another chance to prove himself in his sophomore year with the Browns, others firmly disagree. However, both parties have instances to back their stance. 

Sanders debuted against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 11 and played in a limited capacity. He was named the rookie of the week in Week 14 for his three-TD performance against the Tennessee Titans. 

However the following week, he threw three interceptions against the Chicago Bears. According to StatMuse, Sanders forced 11 turnovers and was sacked 23 times.

Sanders might have the potential to improve, but do the Browns have the time and patience to bring it out? Especially when there is a bright prospect present and waiting?

Browns Linked to Alabama QB

The Browns have three options at the center position: Deshaun Watson, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders.

Deshaun Watson has not played a single snap in over two years due to his right Achilles rupturing twice. While his five-year $230-million contract expires in 2026, it is unlikely the Browns would go ahead with Watson.

Head coach Todd Monken is not a huge fan of Dillon Gabriel. During an interview on the 92.5 The Fan, Monken claimed Gabriel was 'absent' from the training facility, hinting his disregard towards the organization.

Amidst all the chaos, one name had taken hold in the Dawg Pound: Ty Simpson. 

Touted as the seccond best quarterback in the 2026 Draft, the Alabama Crimson Tide QB has called himself a “program changer.” He improved Alabama’s rank from #17 to #9 in 2025. He recorded 3,567 yards and 28 touchdowns. 

Simpson has been widely associated with the Browns and already has a rapport with Monken, who recruited him in Georgia. Simpson also has made his desire to play under Monken on numerous occasions.

Berry's latest admission and the Browns' current offense raises concerns about the QB room. It's only a matter of time we get to know if Sanders or Simpson is handed the keys to the kingdom.

Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community!

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Rishab Nandi