The quarterback competition between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson continued to intensify during the OTAs. Cleveland Browns' head coach Todd Monken gave no clear decision about the lead for the QB1.

Monken spoke with the media after the second voluntary OTA practice on Wednesday. He elaborated on the progress of both Sanders and Watson and answered the queries concerning the Browns’ starting quarterback for 2026.

“Nothing’s really changed other than it’s a different day and you’re firing the same questions,” Monken said. “I mean, we’re going to rotate those guys and play the best player, and we’ll see.”

It was earlier reported in April that Watson had the lead in the QB1 competition. However, Monken did not officially state or indicate which of the two QBs is ahead in the competition. 

Moken did reveal the timeline for his QB1 decision. He said that he would like to name the starter before training camp or surely before Week 1 when the Browns face the Jaguars. 

According to Jacob Camenkar of USA Today, the Browns’ coach was impressed by both quarterbacks' performances during the OTAs. Monken also praised Sanders’ improvement within a short span of time.

“I think Shedeur’s come miles, in terms of his progressions, getting the ball, his understanding of concepts,” Monken said. “I think he’s really, really come a long way.”

Monken also admired 30-year-old Watson’s athleticism in his comeback season after sustaining two Achilles injuries. 

“Deshaun’s athleticism shows up. Obviously, he’s had that, but he’s had injuries that have set him back,” Monken stated. “I wouldn’t say it’s a surprise, but it’s exciting to see. It’s a weapon for him. It’s one of his superpowers, his athleticism." 

Monken added that he found it really impressive that Watson wanted to come back, battle it out for the QB1 spot, address his narrative and further his career. 

Camenkar reported that Sanders and Watson have been splitting first-team reps during practice as part of the QB1 competition. However, an NFL insider considers the QB battle settled, judging by which QB gets more first-team reps.

NFL Insider Not Convinced By Todd Monken’s Statements Regarding Both QBs

NFL insiders and experts alike are convinced that Deshaun Watson is the starter, no matter how much Monken praises both quarterbacks. It was reported in April that Watson was getting more first-team reps during the voluntary minicamp. 

Browns insider Tony Grossi is particularly not buying into Monken’s recent comments on both QBs doing well. He said that the coach is keeping this premise alive because of the “disgruntled fan base.”

“Our numbers prove that Watson had more reps last Wednesday, which is the same day he said nothing has changed,” Grossi said. “Our numbers show that he’s getting more reps. I’m not saying (Monken’s) lying, I just think that if you’ve watched practice and take notes, you know that’s not accurate.”

With practice reps continuing to favor Watson, the Browns’ QB battle remains under intense scrutiny heading into the 2026 season. 

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Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Rishab Nandi