Browns commit to Deshaun Watson for 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 4:53 PM
Last updated Aug 24, 2026
The Cleveland Browns have chosen to start quarterback Deshaun Watson for their 2026 season opener, seeking their first 2-0 start since 1993. The franchise faces significant financial constraints, with Watson's contract restructuring leading to substantial dead money if he is cut or traded. Watson's performance in the early weeks will determine his future as the starter, as any failure may lead to him ceding the role to Shedeur Sanders, who is also on the roster. Discussions about Watson's contract and potential alternatives are anticipated if performance issues arise.
- •Watson aims to lead the Browns to a 2-0 start.
- •Cleveland's decision tied to Watson's contract restructuring.
- •Significant financial penalties exist for cutting or trading Watson.
- •Shedeur Sanders may be considered as a potential starter.
- •Browns face uncertainty with Watson's long-term role.
- 4:53 PMYahoo Sports — However it goes for Deshaun Watson, he'll be a Brown all year
"The Browns have decided to give quarterback Deshaun Watson a chance to lead the team to its first 2-0 start since 1993.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
NFL•Aug 24, 2026, 5:31 PMFive Texans Appear on NFL Top 100
NFL•Aug 24, 2026, 5:31 PMRams place 2 on IR, sign 2 more to the roster
NFL•Aug 24, 2026, 5:30 PMDeshaun Watson apologizes for remarks after being named Browns starter
NFL•Aug 24, 2026, 5:30 PMPatriots training camp notebook: Injuries continue to pile up
Football•Aug 24, 2026, 5:25 PMThree 2026 Texas Longhorns opponents finally name starting QBs
NFL•Aug 24, 2026, 5:25 PMSan Francisco 49ers Owner Jed York Arrested On Disorderly Conduct Charge