When the Cleveland Browns hired Todd Monken as their newest head coach, he undertook the responsibility of finding a reliable quarterback for at least this season. While spectators are awaiting an answer, Monken has revealed he is in no hurry to pick a QB.

“It would feel different if I didn't feel like their progression hadn't gotten to this point where I think they both can start and play winning football,” he said, per ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi. “I'm convinced of it. And I'd say it if I didn't. I can't decide now because I think both have earned the opportunity to continue to compete once we put the pads on.”

According to the June 14 report from ESPN, Monken would “ideally” like to have his QB1 before entering the training camp. However, a prolonged assessment of his two options, veteran Deshaun Watson and sophomore Shedeur Sanders, would benefit them in the long run.

The Browns QB1 between Sanders and Watson has been one of the most talked-about storylines of this season. The individuals offer desirable qualities and have made major progress in leading.

On June 13, Browns expert Mary Kay Cabot wrote that Sanders, 24, wrote that he has an “excellent chance” to take over as the starting QB after ending the 2025 season as one.

“Suddenly, he had caught Watson from behind to make it a tight race heading into camp, and even seized the momentum during mandatory minicamp this week,” Mary Kay Cabot wrote on June 13.

This is an interesting point, as she had campaigned for Watson after insiders suggested he has a solid chance of winning the race.

“With my breaking news here that Deshaun Watson has taken the lead over Shedeur Sanders in the #Browns QB competition and has the inside track to win it, I think they should declare him QB1 asap,” she posted on X on April 29.

However, since Monken has not declared the QB1 yet and has faith in both, let’s have a look at their plus points so far. 

An Overview Of Browns’ QB1 Candidates OTAs Performance

Shedeur Sanders two interceptions in a 7-on-7 play left head coach Todd Monken frustrated, and he labeled them “embarrassing.” Sanders has a point to improve based on his criticism. 

“I just think he’s doing a better job. I think he’s being more decisive,” Monken said, per 92.3 The Fan’s Daryl Ruiter. 

Quarterback coach Mike Bajakian praised Sanders’ footwork. Meanwhile, he praised Watson for using his field experience to make plays. 

“So, the biggest thing for him was being able to translate what we're doing to something he's done in the past,” Bajakian said, per June 11 reports. “He's an extremely fast processor, very smart guy, he's been working his butt off.”

Monken stated that Watson’s athleticism is his “superpower.” The QB appears in good shape after finally recovering from his twice-ruptured Achilles tendon.

According to ESPN Cleveland, in the mandatory mini-camp, Sanders was 10/13 completions behind Watson’s 14/18.

Monken is decidedly going to test out both QBs for a little longer to ensure the Browns have a winning starter this season. Who will it be? Who is your guess? Tell us in the comments.

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar