The Browns are named Deshaun Watson as their QB1 heading into the 2026 season. The decision has already drawn plenty of criticism from fans and media alike.

HC Todd Monken, however, isn't backing down. Monken and management have said that Watson gives the team the best chance to win at the moment.With Shedeur Sanders waiting in the wings, the pressure will be on Deshaun Watson in week 1 as the Browns travel to Jacksonville.

The Browns are keeping their options open at quarterback and Sanders will get a chance to prove himself if Watson doesn't live up to expectations.

Bleacher Report's Alex Ballentine recently listed several players Cleveland could target and among them was Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

McCarthy would certainly be an interesting option for Cleveland but at the moment there isn't a lot of reason to believe that his ceiling is higher than Shedeur Sanders.

For now, Watson has the job. But Cleveland's quarterback situation could change quickly.

Cleveland Browns exec defended Deshaun Watson decision

Cleveland Browns assistant GM Catherine Hickman recently spoke to the media and was asked about the Browns decision to start Deshaun Watson heading into the new season. Hickman defended Coach Monken's decision and said that the Browns were doing what they felt gave them the best chance to win:

"Everything we do is to win football games. That’s how we make our decisions, that’s how we think about it as an organization, and that’s no different at that position."

The Cleveland Browns start their season on September 13 on the road taking on the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Written by

Pratyay