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Browns name Deshaun Watson starting quarterback for 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 24, 2026, 8:03 PM

Last updated Aug 24, 2026

Browns name Deshaun Watson starting quarterback for 2026 season

Summary

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken announced Deshaun Watson as the starting quarterback for the upcoming season on August 24. The decision followed a lengthy competition between Watson and Shedeur Sanders throughout the offseason. Monken cited Watson’s overall performance during training camp and preseason as key factors in his decision. He emphasized that the choice was made to maximize the team's chances of success, particularly in their opening game against Jacksonville. Despite Watson's historic struggles and lack of regular-season play since 2024, Monken noted that fan sentiment did not influence his choice.

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By the Numbers

•Todd Monken confirms Watson as starter ahead of the 2026-27 season.
•Watson competed with Shedeur Sanders throughout the offseason.
•Monken emphasized Watson's experience and training performance.
•Browns face Jacksonville in Week One of the upcoming season.
•Watson's last regular-season game was in 2024.

Latest Updates

10:03 PMYahoo Sports — Todd Monken’s reps for Browns QBs confuses on Tuesday after Deshaun Watson named starter
9:56 PMYahoo Sports — Browns' HC Todd Monken challenges Deshaun Watson after naming him QB1
8:03 PMYahoo Sports — Browns' HC Todd Monken reveals why he named Deshaun Watson QB1

What they're saying

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Browns' head coach Todd Monken not only awarded Deshaun Watson the starting quarterback position, but he also challenged him to "play good football."
— Yahoo Sports

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Cleveland Browns' head coach Todd Monken revealed why he named Deshaun Watson the starting quarterback for the upcoming season on Monday afternoon.
— Yahoo Sports