The QB1 competition with the Browns among Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, Dilion Gabriel, and Taylen Green has already drawn a lot of attention this offseason.

While Sanders was the quarterback starter last season, the recent reports by NFL Insider Jeremy Fowler of ESPN state that Watson is excelling under Todd Monken's new offensive scheme.

Fowler said that Watson has already made an impression during practices and has reportedly connected well with HC Todd Monken, especially because parts of the offensive scheme are similar to systems Watson has previously succeeded in.

“So, he’s been a factor already on the practice field. I’m told he’s hit it off with Todd Monken, who’s got an offensive concept, some elements that Watson has run in the past and been his best at," said Fowler via SportsCenter.

He also said Deshaun Watson is expected to remain involved during OTAs, including periods with both the first-team and second-team reps.

Per Jeremy Fowler and Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN, the Browns are upset over Cleveland’s inability to find a franchise quarterback and now have Watson most likely in the lead over Shedeur Sanders.

Another reason the Browns’ decision around Watson remains under scrutiny is that he is getting something close to a fresh start under Monken after a disappointing four-year run with the team.

Watson appeared in 19 games over four seasons. Given his initial 12-game suspension, a shoulder injury, and the Achilles injury that kept him away for 19 months.

Watson is in his final year of contract with the Browns and would become an unrestricted free agent next year. However, Fowler added that if Watson can regain his confidence and stay in the lineup, there might be a spot for him somewhere in 2027.

Even Monken is keen on reviewing his potential and then making the final call.

Monken Evaluates Watson's Potential For 2026

The Browns HC, Todd Monken, was hired only in January this year and has yet to understand all the players on a deeper level. For Watson, Monken referred to his three-time Pro Bowler and talked about the prospect of working with him.

“Any time that you have a player that at one time has exhibited the skill set at an elite level,” Monken responded at the NFL Combine in February.

He added, “I think you’re always going to give them the benefit of the doubt that somehow we might be able to get that out of him again….”

Monken further added by saying that he’s seen a “really good football player” in Watson over the years. He concluded by saying that he’s excited to work with Watson and see what he brings to the table after a long break.

Cleveland's future depends on Monken's choice for the starting quarterback.

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Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Rudra Dubey