The Cleveland Browns finally made a decision on their starting quarterback for the 2026 season.<\/p>\n
On Monday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter<\/a> reported that veteran Deshaun Watson has been named the Browns’ starter for their Sept. 13 season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars, beating out second-year signal-caller Shedeur Sanders.<\/p>\n Fans on social media had a lot to say about Sanders losing Cleveland’s quarterback competition to Watson:<\/p>\n Sanders and Watson had been engaged in a quarterback competition throughout the offseason. NFL insider\u00a0Jordan Schultz<\/a>\u00a0reported that Cleveland’s decision “truly came down to the end,” and the team ultimately “leaned toward Watson’s experience.” Schultz went on to add that Watson “will have to continue earning” his starting role once the 2026 season officially starts.<\/p>\n Still, some are questioning the Browns’ decision after watching Sanders and Watson in Saturday’s 31-7 preseason loss against the Buffalo Bills. Sanders went 9-of-11 for 74 yards, one touchdown and one interception, while Watson was just 5-of-12 for 36 yards and a pick. Watson also drew some attention after the game when he slammed Cleveland fans for booing him while he was on the field.<\/p>\n