Browns’ Latest QB Prediction Is Bad News for Shedeur Sanders

In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, few positions carry as much weight as quarterback—and for the Cleveland Browns, the search for stability under center has been a saga worthy of its own Netflix series.

With Deshaun Watson’s tenure marred by injuries and underwhelming performances, and the team hovering around the fringes of contention, general manager Andrew Berry is undoubtedly plotting a seismic shift. A recent two-round mock draft for the 2026 NFL Draft paints an intriguing picture: Alabama’s rising star Ty Simpson landing in Cleveland at No. 6 overall, injecting cerebral precision and untapped potential into a franchise desperate for a long-term answer.

This projection, part of a comprehensive mock draft by NFL analyst Ian Cummings at Pro Football Network, underscores the Browns’ advantageous position in a quarterback-rich class. Projected to pick sixth based on current standings, Cleveland wouldn’t need to mortgage the farm for the top two selections—teams like the Giants and Raiders are slotted ahead for mega-prospects like Arch Manning and Garret Nussmeier.

Instead, the Browns can “get away with not picking first or second,” as Reuter astutely notes, capitalizing on the draft’s surprising depth at the most premium position.

Ty Simpson, a 6-foot-2, 208-pound signal-caller, emerges as the perfect fit for Kevin Stefanski’s meticulous offensive scheme. At Alabama, Simpson has blossomed into a pocket maestro, blending old-school football IQ with the arm zip to exploit modern defenses.

Scouts rave about his great pocket instincts and processing ability, traits that allow him to dissect coverages pre-snap and deliver lasers into tight windows. Even when plays break down, Simpson’s mobility and quick release keep drives alive, turning potential disasters into chunk plays.

Sure, his frame isn’t the towering ideal of a Patrick Mahomes, but in an era where brains often trump brawn, Simpson’s accuracy—clocking in at over 68% completion in 2025—makes him a potential Day 1 contributor.

For Browns fans weary of boom-or-bust gambles, Simpson represents calculated upside. His college tape shows a quarterback who thrives in structure, methodically progressing through reads, yet flashes the escapability to extend plays without forcing the issue.

Imagine him syncing with Jerry Jeudy and David Njoku, or grooming under Stefanski’s tutelage.

Reuter’s mock positions Simpson as the third QB off the board, a spot that might underwhelm in shallower classes but screams value here. In a draft where the top signal-callers are flying off the board early, Cleveland’s mid-first-round slot becomes a golden ticket.

Current rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders would not be in a great place if this prediction comes true. Perhaps he will quiet down the talk about a new quarterback in Cleveland if he sees the field this season. But, if Sanders can’t show the Browns something this season, a player like Simpson could be brought in.

Cleveland’s QB quest is far from over, but with prospects like Simpson in play, hope is flickering brighter on the shores of Lake Erie.