The Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback competition is at its peak as Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson are clashing in the OTAs. However, a recently shared update paints a telling picture.

“Browns week 1 starter odds via @FDSportsbook

Deshaun Watson: -196

Shedeur Sanders: +158

Who do you think should be the Browns QB1?” ESPN Cleveland posted in an X post on May 26.

On May 15, Buffaloes Wire reported that FanDuel named Watson, whose odds stood at -174, as the most likely to start from Week 1. At the same time, Sanders’ odds were +134. These numbers summarize the widely believed progression of both players in this season.

Watson has returned after a major right Achilles tendon injury. The 30-year-old has displayed impressive athleticism since. 

“Deshaun’s athleticism shows up,” head coach Todd Monken said per ESPN on May 21. “Obviously he’s had that, but he’s had injuries that have set him back…It's one of his superpowers, his athleticism.”

These comments from Monken came after the minicamp last week, when Watson threw a zone touchdown pass to rookie wide receiver Denzel Boston. At the same time, Sanders reportedly threw two interceptions, which deeply frustrated Monken. 

“We threw interceptions in 7-on-7 for God’s sake. Who does that? There’s no pass rush,” he said after the May 20 training session. “It’s embarrassing.” 

However, Monken also praised the 24-year-old Sanders’ growth so far.

“I think Shedeur’s come miles, in terms of his progressions, getting the ball out, his understanding of concepts,” Monken said. “I think he's really, really come a long way.”

While both quarterbacks are fighting to clinch the QB1 position with varying odds, fans rallied behind their preferred quarterback.

Fans Choose Between Shedeur Sanders And Deshaun Watson

Under the ESPN Cleveland X post, asking who between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson would become the starting QB this year, fans flooded the comments with their takes.

Some supported Shedeur Sanders, who is in his sophomore year with the Cleveland Browns. 

“Sanders until otherwise proven not to be worthy of the honor,” one fan commented.

Another said Sanders deserves it and the judgment should be based on the performance of both QBs.

“Shedeur, with 2 more years under contract, unless Watson is substantially better.”

Currently, Sanders is under a four-year, $4.6 million rookie contract with the Browns. Others supported Watson due to his contract.

“Watson makes the most sense because they gave him 100ms. It would be stupid not to start him,” one replied.

The quarterback was traded from the Houston Texans in 2022 and had signed a five-year contract worth $230 million. His 2026 salary is $46 million. 

“Watson, but better win 8 games,” another commented, based on his history with the Browns. 

He played in just 19 games before an injury to his right Achilles tendon in October 2024. In the past four years, Watson has never played in all games of a season and holds a 9-10 record.

However, one fan just wants to see the Browns win, regardless of the QB.

“Whoever starts I just want them to play at a high level and Win. I don't care if it's Bubby Brister,” they commented. 

The Browns’ decision-makers are working through their dilemma, and fans have shared their verdict on it. Who do you think they will pick? Tell us in the comments. 

Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community! 

Written by

Akanksha Biradar