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Browns quarterback competition continues after preseason opener loss to Bears

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 1:49 AM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Browns quarterback competition continues after preseason opener loss to Bears

Summary

The Cleveland Browns lost 34-10 to the Chicago Bears during their first preseason game on August 19, 2026. Deshaun Watson started and played the first half, completing 11 of 15 passes for 126 yards and leading two scoring drives, despite a fumble. Shedeur Sanders took over in the second half, finishing with 6 of 11 passes for 79 yards and an interception. Head coach Todd Monken has stated that the quarterback competition remains ongoing, with Sanders slated to start the first half against the Buffalo Bills in the next preseason game. Evaluations will continue to determine the starting position for Week 1.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Browns lost 34-10 to Bears in preseason opener on August 19, 2026.
•Deshaun Watson completed 11 of 15 passes for 126 yards in first half.
•Shedeur Sanders struggled with an interception after completing 6 of 11 passes.
•Watson appears to have a slight edge, but competition remains open.
•Sanders will start the next preseason game against the Bills.

Latest Updates

1:49 AMYahoo Sports — Browns QB Battle Remains Wide Open After Preseason Opener

What they're saying

"
The Cleveland Browns entered their first preseason game with one of the most intriguing quarterback battles in the NFL. After Saturday’s 34-10 loss to the Chicago Bears, however, the competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders remains far from settled. Watson got the start and played the first half, giving him the first opportunity to…
— Yahoo Sports

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