The Cleveland Browns have made their quarterback decision for the 2026 NFL season, naming Deshaun Watson as the team’s starting quarterback.
The announcement came on Monday, August 24, just two days after Watson struggled during Cleveland’s preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills. His selection has immediately generated debate among Browns fans, particularly because the team also has young quarterbacks Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel on the roster.
Deshaun Watson Named Browns Starting QB
Watson will enter the 2026 season as Cleveland’s QB1 after winning the competition for the starting job.
The decision followed a difficult preseason performance against Buffalo. Watson completed only 5 of 12 passes for 36 yards and threw an interception as the Browns suffered a 31-7 defeat.
Although preseason results do not determine regular-season success, Watson’s performance added to concerns that have surrounded the veteran quarterback throughout training camp.
Cleveland ultimately decided that Watson gives the team its best immediate opportunity to compete.
Why Did the Browns Choose Deshaun Watson?
The Browns’ decision appears to be based on experience and familiarity rather than long-term development.
Watson has extensive NFL experience and has previously demonstrated the ability to operate an offense at a high level. Cleveland also knows what it has in the veteran quarterback, while Sanders and Gabriel remain relatively inexperienced at the professional level.
There is also a significant financial factor involved. Watson is reportedly set to receive $46 million in 2026, making the decision to move away from him more complicated.
For Cleveland, starting Watson could therefore be viewed as an attempt to get the most immediate production possible while avoiding a major quarterback change at the beginning of the season.
Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel Remain Options
The Browns’ quarterback room is not limited to Watson.
Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel provide Cleveland with younger alternatives who could become important parts of the franchise’s future.
Sanders has experienced his own struggles during the preseason, but his potential makes him an intriguing option if Watson fails to deliver during the regular season.
Gabriel is another quarterback the Browns could turn to later in the year. Giving either young quarterback meaningful playing time would allow Cleveland to evaluate its future while gaining valuable NFL experience.
For now, however, the Browns have chosen experience over experimentation.
Could Jameis Winston Return to Cleveland?
One intriguing possibility raised by NFL insider Albert Breer is a potential trade for Jameis Winston.
Winston currently serves as a backup quarterback for the New York Giants and has previous experience with Cleveland. He also has a connection to Browns head coach Todd Monken from their time together with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Winston recently performed well in a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins, completing 15 of 21 passes for 150 yards and rushing for a touchdown in a 26-3 Giants victory.
A potential trade would not be straightforward, though. Winston provides valuable veteran depth for New York and could be particularly useful behind young quarterback Jaxson Dart.
As a result, Cleveland would likely have to make an attractive offer to convince the Giants to move him.
What Does Watson’s Starting Role Mean for the Browns?
Watson’s promotion puts significant pressure on the veteran quarterback.
The Browns are coming off a difficult period at the position, and Watson’s performances will be closely monitored from the opening game of the regular season.
If he plays efficiently and Cleveland competes, the decision could eventually look justified. But if the offense struggles again, pressure on the coaching staff and front office could increase quickly.
The biggest question is whether Watson can rediscover the form that made him one of the NFL’s most productive quarterbacks earlier in his career.
Browns QB Competition Is Not Completely Over
Although Watson has been named the starter, that does not necessarily mean Cleveland’s quarterback situation is settled for the entire season.
NFL teams can change starters because of performance, injuries or strategic decisions. If Watson struggles early, the Browns could eventually turn to Sanders or Gabriel.
A strong preseason or early-season showing from either young quarterback could also create additional pressure on Watson.
For now, though, the Browns are moving forward with Watson under center.
Browns Starting QB: Final Outlook
Deshaun Watson is officially the Cleveland Browns’ starting quarterback entering the 2026 season.
The choice gives Cleveland an experienced quarterback, but it also creates plenty of questions about the franchise’s long-term direction. With Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel waiting behind him, Watson will need to perform well to keep the starting job throughout the season.
The Browns are betting that experience can produce better immediate results. If that bet fails, Cleveland could eventually be forced to turn toward its younger quarterbacks.
For now, the answer to the question “Who is the Browns starting QB?” is clear: Deshaun Watson.
Leave a Reply