The Cleveland Browns' quarterback battle between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson is becoming one of the NFL's most intriguing storylines. With the season approaching, it looks like HC Todd Monken has not made his choice yet.

According to prediction market data via Sports Illustrated's Samuel Profeta, Sanders has closed the gap on Watson, creating more intrigue around the competition.

“In a perfect world, you’d love to have your starting quarterback, and you’d love to have your o-line set," said Todd Monken, head coach of the Browns. "I’m just not sure we’ll be there–If you have two quarterbacks, you have none. We’ve really got two starting-level quarterbacks. We really do.”

Rather than handing the job to Watson based on his experience and contract value, Monken chose to keep the competition fair and open. He refused to support any of the QBs for the starting position yet, suggesting that consistency and command of offense will determine who takes the first snap in Week 1.

Entering his second year, Sanders has spent his rookie season proving he belongs at the professional level. Though his performance was inconsistent, he showed talent that made him one of college football's most famous QBs, recording 35-19 at Colorado and Jackson State.

Meanwhile, Watson has more experience. But his injuries and limited playing time over the past few seasons have raised questions about whether he can return to his actual form. These concerns opened the door for Sanders to enter the competition. The Browns plan to split opportunities between both QBs.

Whether Sanders completes his rise or Watson establishes himself as QB1, the Browns appear headed toward one of the most closely watched QB decisions of the offseason.

ESPN's Analyst Claims That Watson is Ahead In The QB Battle

Tong Grossi of ESPN Cleveland thinks that in the QB battle, the veteran has a major lead. 

“Watson’s athletic ability is superior to anybody in that room. Watson being healthy is the obvious difference," said Grossi. "And then you add his experience, he’s been through this. This is the easiest time of the year for a veteran quarterback–I think he's ahead, and I don't think he can be caught at this point of the spring period.”

Watson has ten years of experience, entering as a first-round pick by the Houston Texans in the 2017 NFL Draft. He was a three-time Pro Bowl selection from 2018 to 2020. This gives him an advantage in reading defenses and managing games.

As per the analyst, unless the veteran suffers a setback or Sanders elevates his play during training camp, Watson appears firmly in control of the starting role in the next phase of competition.

What are your views on the QB battle between Shedeur Sanders and Deshaun Watson? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Hetal Moleshri

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi