The Cleveland Browns’ decades-long search for a reliable quarterback persists beyond Shedeur Sanders’ 2025 arrival. General manager Andrew Berry voiced uncertainty this week at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis when asked about the starting quarterback for next season.
Berry stated it’s too early to decide between Sanders and veteran Deshaun Watson. The team evaluates multiple options, including Watson, free agent Malik Willis, and Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, a projected first-round draft pick.
New Coach Eyes Watson Despite Setbacks
Head coach Todd Monken, who arrives from Baltimore’s offensive coordinator role, expresses interest in Watson. Watson’s career faces hurdles from sexual misconduct allegations, erratic play, and injuries, including two ruptured Achilles tendons. He settled 27 lawsuits from women accusing him of inappropriate behavior during massages.
Watson has not completed a full season since 2020 but showed promise in December practices. With the Browns, he posts a 9-10 record as a starter and suffers sacks on nearly 12% of dropbacks.
Sanders’ Mixed Rookie Campaign
Shedeur Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, delivered an uneven rookie year. Drafted fifth overall after slipping from first-round projections, he started seven games, going 3-4 with 10 interceptions against seven touchdowns. He earned a surprise Pro Bowl selection.
The Browns’ defense ranked fourth in yards allowed last season, but the offense finished second-worst league-wide.
Offensive Line Faces Total Overhaul
Right guard Wyatt Teller enters free agency for 2026, leaving the entire starting offensive line—Cam Robinson, Ethan Pocic, Jack Conklin, and Joel Bitonio—available on the market.
The Browns hold the No. 6 and No. 24 picks in April’s NFL Draft, positioning them to bolster protection for the Week 1 starter. Officials also explore trading down to gain more selections and rebuild the roster.
