Browns name Deshaun Watson starter; Cousins expected to start for Raiders

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 3:24 PM

Last updated Aug 28, 2026

Summary

Deshaun Watson was named the starting quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, beating out Shedeur Sanders. Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins is anticipated to start for the Las Vegas Raiders following a solid performance in the preseason finale against the San Francisco 49ers. Tua Tagovailoa is likely to be phased out by the Atlanta Falcons as Michael Penix Jr. emerges as a potential starter for Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Activation of Alec Pierce off the PUP list gives the Indianapolis Colts a boost as the season approaches.

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Status Watch

•Watson beats Shedeur Sanders for Browns' starting QB role.
•Cousins expected to start after solid performance in Raiders' final preseason game.
•Penix emerges as potential starter for Falcons in Week 1 against Steelers.
•Alec Pierce activated off PUP list, planning to play in Week 1.

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