Browns QB Shedeur Sanders Receives Major Career Update

The Cleveland Browns appear ready to move forward with Shedeur Sanders leading the offense as their primary quarterback heading into the 2026 campaign. With uncertainty surrounding the position, the team faces a crowded room featuring Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel, all of whom remain on the roster and are battling for the starting role.

While three candidates technically remain in the mix, the real contest seems to be shaping up between Sanders and Watson. The organization has shown little urgency to overhaul the group dramatically in the immediate future, choosing instead to evaluate what they already have on hand.

Cleveland could still add another passer through the draft, and some speculation has connected the Browns to Alabama’s Ty Simpson using one of their early selections. However, longtime team observer Zac Jackson of The Athletic believes the franchise is not inclined to chase Simpson aggressively.

“Thus far, the 2026 Browns have stuck with the three passers they already had under contract. And have set the stage for a spring and summer quarterback competition,” Jackson wrote. “I’d be surprised if the quarterback room in September is still Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel. But I think the current group is set to have the most realistic shot at winning the job this summer.”

Jackson further explained the team’s approach to the situation.

“I think the Browns are fine giving Sanders a fuller evaluation. With the 2027 quarterback draft class and the possibility of a mid-round (or even post-draft) addition in the background.”

Sanders closed out the previous season as the clear starter, a development that strengthens his case for continuing in that role. Front office decision-makers appear determined to provide him with an extended opportunity to prove whether he can develop into a long-term franchise leader.

Although rumors have circulated about Cleveland targeting a quarterback early in the 2026 NFL Draft, Jackson suggests the team prioritizes other roster needs over using a first-round choice on the position. He anticipates that the Browns will only consider Simpson if the prospect surprisingly slides into the second round.

Entering the offseason program, Sanders stands out as the frontrunner for the starting job. His recent performance and the coaching staff’s willingness to build around him have positioned him favorably compared to the other options on the depth chart.

The organization has also leaned into this momentum publicly. Their official Instagram account recently shared footage of Sanders arriving at the facility for voluntary workouts, generating excitement among supporters who view the post as a clear signal of his elevated status.

Many fans interpreted the social media activity as confirmation that Sanders is being prepared to take the first snap in Week 1. The team’s decision to highlight his presence seems designed to build confidence around the young quarterback as the face of the offense.

Sanders earned a Pro Bowl nod last season, adding further credibility to his candidacy. As the Browns prepare for the coming year, the focus remains on allowing internal competition to sort itself out while giving their incumbent starter every chance to solidify his place in the lineup.