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Cleveland Browns announce Deshaun Watson as starting quarterback over Shedeur Sanders

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 26, 2026, 12:50 AM

Last updated Aug 26, 2026

Cleveland Browns announce Deshaun Watson as starting quarterback over Shedeur Sanders

Summary

The Cleveland Browns have named Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback for the 2026 season, opting against Shedeur Sanders amid ongoing QB1 competition. Watson's controversial past comments about fans have intensified scrutiny over the decision. Analyst Jason Whitlock criticized Sanders' media presence during the preseason, suggesting it contributed to the distraction surrounding the team. Sanders, coming off a rookie season with limited starts, is now positioned as a backup. This decision risks alienating Browns fans already unsettled by Watson's previous statements.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Browns confirm Deshaun Watson as starting QB for 2026 season
•Shedeur Sanders emerging as a backup following previous preseason hype
•Watson's prior comments have drawn negative fan feedback
•Analyst Jason Whitlock critiques media focus on Sanders
•Sanders had a challenging rookie season with low impact scores

Latest Updates

12:50 AMYahoo Sports — ‘He’s That Much Of a Distraction’ — Jason Whitlock Rails Against Browns Star Shedeur Sanders’ ‘Circus’

What they're saying

"
One of the top storylines of the 2026 NFL preseason was the Cleveland Browns’ QB1 competition between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders. After Watson’s incendiary comments about Browns fans, it seemed like Sanders had a chance to earn the starting job.
— Yahoo Sports

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