Cleveland Browns name Deshaun Watson starting QB, delaying Shedeur Sanders' debut
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 26, 2026, 7:12 PM
Last updated Sep 26, 2026
The Cleveland Browns have confirmed Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback for Week 3 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, leaving Shedeur Sanders as the backup. Watson has performed well, recording a completion percentage of 76.9% with three touchdowns in two games. Reports indicate that unless there is a significant downturn in Watson's performance during Week 3, Sanders is unlikely to start before Week 5. Following a match against the Carolina Panthers, a strong possibility exists for Watson to retain his starting position through at least a short-week game against Pittsburgh.
- •Deshaun Watson is starting QB for the Browns in Week 3.
- •Watson has a 76.9% completion rate and three touchdowns this season.
- •Shedeur Sanders will remain as backup for the home opener.
- •Browns play the Steelers on Thursday Night Football in Week 3.
- •Sanders may see action if Watson performs poorly against the Panthers.
- 7:12 PMYahoo Sports — Why Shedeur Sanders might have to wait until after Week 4 to start for Browns
"Shedeur Sanders might have to wait a while longer before he starts this season.
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