The Cleveland Browns’ latest post featured only one of their two starting-caliber quarterbacks, Shedeur Sanders. While the franchise has yet to announce its QB1 for the season officially, this exclusion could signal where Sanders and Deshaun Watson stand on the roster. 

“One last look at Media Day,” read the caption of the Browns July 12 post. 

Watson, who has been one of the most discussed Browns players, especially this year, was notably absent. Leaving out Watson, 30, who is making a comeback this year after a long absence and battling with Sanders, is a huge statement. 

The Browns' leaders have vowed that this season will put an end to underwhelming records and their notorious quarterback crisis. The franchise has been keenly observing both players for months on end, and Watson is aiming to take off where he left off in October 2024.

After rupturing his Achilles tendon twice and missing the 2025 season entirely, he is now up against Sanders. The younger, healthier quarterback began his NFL career on the bench until he replaced Dillon Gabriel in Week 10.

Sanders, 24, ended his rookie campaign as the team’s lead passer with 1,400 yards. He threw seven passing touchdowns against 10 interceptions. While he pales in comparison to other rookies like Tennessee Titans’ Cam Ward (3,169 passing yards, 15 passing TDs, seven INTs), he was reliable in a doomed season and a failing offensive line.

Watson, in the past four years, has played in just 19 games and gained 3,365 passing yards. For a guaranteed five-year contract worth $230 million, Watson has proven to be a bad investment. 

Sanders, on the other hand, has emerged as a constant name in the headlines and a fan favorite. From the Browns’ highest rookie jersey sales to a record-shattering $17.7 million group licensing income, Sanders has the people’s favor. The latest post is indicative of just that.

Fans flood comments in support of Shedeur Sanders as QB1 for 2026

On July 12, the Browns made an Instagram post featuring some notable players, creating buzz among fans. However, Deshaun Watson was missing. 

The exclusion, accompanied by Shedeur Sanders hitting his signature victory pose, has made his fans happy, who want to see their favorite QB start.

“No Watson (laughing emoji) say something without saying something!” a comment replied to the post.

“Shedeur is clearly QB1 only QB featured but the haters are blind lol,” another wrote.

The comments section was flooded with watch emoji, synonymous with Sanders.

“IN SHEDEUR WE TRUST 10 plus wins PERIODDDDDDDD,” another said in support. 

“QB1 let’s goooo shock the world my boy,” one cheered for Sanders.

Other fans were excited for the revamped team, featuring many new faces. The post shared photos of players like rookie wide receivers KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston, and cornerback Denzel Ward.

“The NEW Cleveland, let’s go,let’s get it! QB1 aka The Field General, SS #2” the comment replied, highlighting Sanders’ new, No.2 jersey.

Since Sanders was the only QB featured in the post, questions about his counterparts’ absence emerged. 

“Where is Dillion,” one asked after 2025 QB pick Dillon Gabriel.

What are your thoughts on this post? Tell us in the comments.

Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community!

Written by

Akanksha Biradar