The Cleveland Browns' quarterback situation just got a major update. Despite talk of an open competition, one NFL insider believes the starting job is Shedeur Sanders' to lose, sparking debate about the team's direction.

On Monday’s episode of The Ken Carman Show with Anthony Lima, Ken Carman weighed in on the recent changes in the offensive line and stated that Sanders' job is not safe.

“For Shedeur Sanders, this was a massive win. If they brought in Malik Willis, that'd be a big-time loss,” Lima said. "I think it’s the opposite. I think it’s Shedeur’s job to lose. And I think it was a good free agency for him, where you have new people coming in on the offensive line,” Carman opined.

The Browns were rumored to sign former Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis and replace Sanders. While that rumor never materialized, the front office did make a major change.

They restructured Watson’s contract and changed their cap space. His 2026 cap hit has been moved from over $80 million to $44 million. With the $36 million added into the cap space, the Browns have roped in tackle Tytus Howard, Zion Johnson, and Elgton Jenkins. 

That could solve one of the biggest concerns around Sanders. Last season, his performance in the pocket came under fire. Many believed he was too hasty in making the pass. But at the same time, some argued Sanders' pass protection wasn't enough. He was sacked 23 times!

And even with the O-line letting players through regularly, Sanders threw seven touchdowns, 10 interceptions for 1,400 yards in his rookie season. And, he is younger and faster than Watson.

The 24-year-old showed massive improvement in his completion rate, too. He started with 25 percent in Week 11 against the Baltimore Ravens and ended with 73.9 percent. 

But If Not Sanders, What Are the Browns’ Other Options?

Mary Kay Cabot, another expert, had claimed that Sanders has "a larger-than-life, Tim Tebowish effect" over fans and media. But after a 4-13 and 5-12 record in the past two seasons, everybody is demanding a change.

The Browns have the 5th and the 24th overall pick in the upcoming draft and can pick Ty Simpson. Simpson has time and again stated his desire to play under Monken.

The Browns' final decision remains uncertain, leaving fans waiting for a resolution. What are your thoughts on this take? Tell us in the comments and read more at the Cleveland Browns Community.

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Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar