Browns face accusations of influencing QB decision as Watson named starter
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 26, 2026, 6:14 PM
Last updated Aug 26, 2026

The Cleveland Browns announced on August 24 that Deshaun Watson will be their starting quarterback for Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III alleges that the team pressured head coach Todd Monken to make this decision, claiming many within the organization preferred Shedeur Sanders for the starting role. Griffin suggests that the choice reflects financial considerations related to Watson's contract rather than performance assessment. This claim raises questions about the integrity of the quarterback competition leading up to the season.
- •Deshaun Watson named starting QB by Browns for Week 1.
- •Robert Griffin III accuses Browns of influencing Monken's decision.
- •Many within the organization reportedly preferred Shedeur Sanders.
- •Griffin's claims suggest financial motives behind the decision.
- •Browns start the season against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
- 6:14 PMYahoo Sports — Former NFL QB accuses Browns of forcing Todd Monken to name Deshaun Watson QB1
"This is a very bold accusation from Robert Griffin III.
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