While the Cleveland Browns enjoy an extended break before training camp, quarterback Deshaun Watson has already returned to the team's Berea facility, putting his summer break on hold.

“Despite the Browns being in the midst of their seven-week summer break, Watson opted to spend one of his off weeks here working on some of the things he learned during spring ball and throwing to some local receivers,” Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com wrote.

Monken has refused to name a starter, saying both Watson and Sanders can win. Watson is not waiting for clarity.

Watson's decision to return early reflects his determination to make an impression on Monken and the new coaching staff before training camp officially begins.

According to Cabot of Cleveland.com, Watson has spent his offseason training with private physical therapist Billy Voltaire while continuing throwing sessions alongside personal quarterbacks coach Quincy Avery.

The Browns QB is working his way up after missing the entire 2025 season following two Achilles surgeries.

Speaking of Watson, he has made a total of 19 starts for the Browns. During that span, he has completed 61.2% of his passes for 3,365 yards, 19 touchdowns, 12 interceptions, been sacked 70 times, and posted an 80.7 passer rating.

Now, he has to settle in under new head coach Todd Monken and a revamped offensive staff led by quarterbacks coach Mike Bajakian and offensive coordinator Travis Switzer.

Cabot also noted that a mid-July throwing camp is set to take place in South Florida and is part of Watson's offseason schedule.

Watson's extra work has also extended beyond Berea, with additional throwing sessions planned before training camp. Interestingly, Sanders plans to attend, saying the priority is building chemistry as teammates ahead of training camp.

Deshaun Watson continues to be viewed as browns’ QB1

ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler sees Deshaun Watson as the current frontrunner over Shedeur

Sanders, however, believes that preseason performances could significantly alter the race for the starting job.

"Watson has had the leg up, but as was told to me by somebody with the team, Shedeur Sanders made enough strides to close the gap at least somewhat," Fowler said as per the NFL on ESPN.

Fowler added that the Browns aren't ready to hand the job to anyone just yet.

“They want to see not only training camp, but preseason game action to see what these two guys can do. Most around the league expect Watson, the veteran, to get this job,” Fowler added.

With Sanders and Watson leading the quarterback battle, the Browns have time to make their decision. However, as Fowler noted, Watson's experience could give him the edge to start in Week 1.

While the competition remains open, Watson's experience and early offseason commitment have kept him in the strongest position entering training camp.

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Written by

Suryakant Das

Edited by

Rudra Dubey